2002 Honda Civic vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2002 Honda Civic is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda Civic (157 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda S-MX weights approximately 68 kg more than 2002 Honda Civic.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Honda Civic. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Civic. (179 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Civic. 1998 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 2002 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2002 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Civic | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Civic | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1264 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
