2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 13 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. Both 2009 Kia Spectra and 1996 Honda S-MX are equipped with a 1,973 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 1996 Honda S-MX (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 1996 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Spectra 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:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Kia | Honda |
| Model | Spectra | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
