2005 Saturn L vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2005 Saturn L is newer by 9 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 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Saturn L.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Saturn L. 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, 2005 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn L 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 2005 Saturn L has manual transmission. 2005 Saturn L 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:
| 2005 Saturn L | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Saturn | Honda |
| Model | L | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2194 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
