2003 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 5 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 110 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 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 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:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
