1997 Honda S-MX vs. 2012 Volvo S60
To start off, 2012 Volvo S60 is newer by 15 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S60 (325 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S60 weights approximately 429 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.
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, 2012 Volvo S60 (479 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda S-MX. 2012 Volvo S60 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. 2012 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda S-MX | 2012 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | S-MX | S60 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 479 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2776 mm |
