1983 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2010 Ford S-Max is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2010 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2010 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford S-Max weights approximately 183 kg more than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Ford S-Max, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2010 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | S | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
