1998 Honda S-MX vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda S-MX weights approximately 52 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 1998 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda S-MX | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-MX | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2590 mm |
