2005 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda S-MX weights approximately 65 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 1997 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1997 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
