1998 Honda S-MX vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 13 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 203 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 2011 Kia Optima. 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda S-MX. 2011 Kia Optima 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. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda S-MX | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | S-MX | Optima |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2797 mm |
