2003 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 239 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 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 2003 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2008 Ford S-Max | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | M3 | S-Max |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.8:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1681 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |