1998 Honda S-MX vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 11 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 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 352 kg more than 1998 Honda S-MX. 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 2009 Toyota Highlander. 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda S-MX. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1998 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 1998 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda S-MX | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Honda | Toyota |
| Model | S-MX | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2800 mm |
