2006 Ford S-Max vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2006 Ford S-Max. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 953 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Ford S-Max. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-Max | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2480 mm |
