1988 BMW 524 vs. 2011 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2011 Ford S-Max is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford S-Max (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford S-Max weights approximately 388 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2011 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 524 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
