1997 Honda S-MX vs. 2008 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Maxima is newer by 11 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Maxima (197 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 210 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 2008 Nissan Maxima. 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, 2008 Nissan Maxima (271 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Maxima 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 | 2008 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Honda | Nissan |
| Model | S-MX | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2760 mm |
