1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2009 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix 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 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Toyota Matrix. 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 Toyota Matrix (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix 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 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Honda | Toyota |
| Model | S-MX | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
