2006 Ford S-Max vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford S-Max. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford S-Max would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2006 Ford S-Max. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 11 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford S-Max. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford S-Max. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-Max | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
