2008 Honda Element vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2008 Honda Element 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 2,352 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 620 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 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Honda S-MX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element 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 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda S-MX. 2008 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 1996 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | Element | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2352 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
