2012 Suzuki SX4 vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2012 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Suzuki SX4 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda S-MX weights approximately 92 kg more than 2012 Suzuki SX4.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Suzuki SX4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Honda S-MX has automatic transmission and 2012 Suzuki SX4 has manual transmission. 2012 Suzuki SX4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Suzuki SX4 | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Suzuki | Honda |
| Model | SX4 | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1605 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
