2006 Ford S-Max vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 2006 Ford S-Max. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 237 kg more than 2006 Ford S-Max. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford S-Max. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
