1999 Honda S-MX vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1999 Honda S-MX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1999 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Honda S-MX weights approximately 45 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1999 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda S-MX | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | S-MX | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1972 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2430 mm |
