2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2011 Ford S-Max is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 2011 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 207 kg more than 2011 Ford S-Max. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford S-Max.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | S | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 70 L |
