2002 Honda S-MX vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2002 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 167 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 2005 Kia Optima. 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, 2005 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima 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 | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | S-MX | Optima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1497 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
