2006 Ford S-Max vs. 2001 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 2,657 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (176 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 181 kg more than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Sonata. 2001 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2006 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 2001 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | S-Max | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
