2006 Ford S-Max vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford S-Max (143 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 245 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford S-Max. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford S-Max.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | 230 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
