1996 Honda S-MX vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 16 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 433 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 331 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 459 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 1996 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda S-MX | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-MX | SLS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
