1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 437 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 17.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
