1997 Honda S-MX vs. 2011 Honda Accord

To start off, 2011 Honda Accord is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Honda Accord (271 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Accord weights approximately 217 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 2011 Honda Accord. 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, 2011 Honda Accord (340 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda S-MX. 2011 Honda Accord has automatic transmission and 1997 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 1997 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Honda S-MX 2011 Honda Accord
Make Honda Honda
Model S-MX Accord
Year Released 1997 2011
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1973 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 271 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 340 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed automatic
Vehicle Weight 1330 kg 1547 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4851 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1849 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1433 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2741 mm