2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 228 kg more than 1997 Honda S-MX. 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 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda S-MX. 1997 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Chrysler | Honda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
