2001 Honda S-MX vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2001 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 70 kg more than 2001 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Lexus IS. 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS 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 | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Honda | Lexus |
| Model | S-MX | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
