2008 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2008 Saab 03-Sep 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 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda S-MX (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 242 kg more than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Saab 03-Sep. 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, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 03-Sep 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 2008 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2008 Saab 03-Sep 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:
| 2008 Saab 03-Sep | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Saab | Honda |
| Model | 03-Sep | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
