2001 Honda S-MX vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Honda S-MX is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2001 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Honda S-MX.
Because 2001 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Honda S-MX | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-MX | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
