2002 Honda S-MX vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2002 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima 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 253 kg more than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Because 2002 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Nissan Altima. 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima 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 | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Honda | Nissan |
| Model | S-MX | Altima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2780 mm |
