2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford S-Max is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2012 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford S-Max weights approximately 278 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | C | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
