1998 Honda S-MX vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 14 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 281 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 2012 Chevrolet Impala. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda S-MX. 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2012 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda S-MX | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Honda | Chevrolet |
| Model | S-MX | Impala |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2807 mm |
