2009 Acura RL vs. 2002 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 3,664 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (300 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2002 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda S-MX.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Acura RL (367 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda S-MX. 2009 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2002 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 2002 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 2002 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Acura | Honda |
| Model | RL | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2510 mm |
