2004 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 208 kg more than 1996 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2004 Hyundai Sonata (219 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 1996 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 2004 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2004 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Hyundai | Honda |
| Model | Sonata | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1538 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
