1998 Honda S-MX vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 193 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Honda S-MX | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | S-MX | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
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 | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2329 mm |