2002 Honda Accord vs. 1997 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2002 Honda Accord is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda Accord (152 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda S-MX weights approximately 490 kg more than 2002 Honda Accord.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Honda Accord. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 Honda Accord has automatic transmission and 1997 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 1997 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Accord | 1997 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Accord | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
