2006 Ford S-Max vs. 2004 BMW 316
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 316 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 30 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 230 kg more than 2004 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 316 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 2004 BMW 316. 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, 2006 Ford S-Max (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 316. 2004 BMW 316 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. 2004 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 2004 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | S-Max | 316 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
