2001 Honda S-MX vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 Honda S-MX is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2001 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2001 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Honda S-MX weights approximately 115 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
Because 2001 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 323. 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, 2001 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Honda S-MX | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | S-MX | 323 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
