1998 Honda S-MX vs. 1997 TVR Speed 12
To start off, 1998 Honda S-MX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 TVR Speed 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Speed 12 would be higher. At 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (800 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 671 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Speed 12 should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda S-MX weights approximately 330 kg more than 1997 TVR Speed 12.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 TVR Speed 12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 691 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Speed 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda S-MX | 1997 TVR Speed 12 | |
| Make | Honda | TVR |
| Model | S-MX | Speed 12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 7730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 800 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 881 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 89 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
