1997 Honda S-MX vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 12 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback 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 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Honda | Subaru |
| Model | S-MX | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
