2008 Cadillac CTS vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 12 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 458 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 2008 Cadillac CTS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (233 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac CTS | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Cadillac | Honda |
| Model | CTS | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2510 mm |
