2002 Honda S-MX vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2002 Honda S-MX is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Honda S-MX weights approximately 305 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2002 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Honda S-MX | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | S-MX | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2270 mm |