2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 133 kg more than 1998 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda S-MX. 1998 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | C | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
