2002 Honda S-MX vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
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 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2002 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 270 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 420. 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 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda S-MX | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-MX | 420 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2850 mm |
