2006 Ford S-Max vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 3 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2006 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 635 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 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 2009 Nissan Xterra. 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, 2009 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 | 2009 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | S-Max | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 2316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
