2002 Honda S-MX vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2002 Honda S-MX is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Honda S-MX. (129 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2002 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda S-MX. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 2002 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 2002 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda S-MX | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-MX | 230 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2810 mm |
