2006 Ford S-Max vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford S-Max (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 309 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford S-Max. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-Max | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
