1996 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 93 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2008 Ford S-Max | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | M3 | S-Max |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 320 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1681 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |