1997 Honda S-MX vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 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 30 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda 3. 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, 1997 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Honda S-MX | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | S-MX | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2639 mm |