2002 Honda S-MX vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2002 Honda S-MX is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Honda S-MX weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2002 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda S-MX | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-MX | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
