2004 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 335 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 Saab 03-Sep. 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 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Saab 03-Sep | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Saab | Honda |
| Model | 03-Sep | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
