1997 Honda S-MX vs. 2002 Honda Civic
To start off, 2002 Honda Civic is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda Civic (157 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda Civic 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 66 kg more than 2002 Honda Civic.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Honda Civic. 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, 1997 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Civic. (179 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda S-MX | 2002 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | S-MX | Civic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1264 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2630 mm |
