1998 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 1 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Honda S-MX.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1997 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1997 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 318 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
