1997 Honda S-MX vs. 2005 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 8 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Spectra (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra 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 40 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Kia Spectra. 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, 2005 Kia Spectra (192 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Spectra 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 | 2005 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | S-MX | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
