1999 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2011 Ford S-Max is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford S-Max (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford S-Max weights approximately 303 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 318 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 1999 BMW 318. 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2011 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
