1997 Honda S-MX vs. 2003 BMW Z8
To start off, 2003 BMW Z8 is newer by 6 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 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW Z8 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1997 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW Z8. 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, 2003 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z8 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 | 2003 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | Honda | BMW |
| Model | S-MX | Z8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
