2006 Ford S-Max vs. 2011 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Express is newer by 5 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Express (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2006 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 826 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 2011 Chevrolet Express 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 2011 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2011 Chevrolet Express (452 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford S-Max. 2011 Chevrolet Express 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. 2011 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 2011 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | S-Max | Express |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 452 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 2507 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 2126 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 117 L |
