2008 BMW X3 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 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2011 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 361 kg more than 2011 Ford S-Max. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 BMW X3 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, 2011 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X3 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 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2011 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.5 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
