2008 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2011 Ford S-Max is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2011 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford S-Max weights approximately 288 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Ford S-Max. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2011 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2011 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
