1997 Honda S-MX vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1997 Honda S-MX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Vectra (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda S-MX weights approximately 106 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Opel Vectra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1996 Opel Vectra (230 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda S-MX | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Honda | Opel |
| Model | S-MX | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
