1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-MX | CLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
