2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1973 Subaru R-2
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1973 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1973 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 1283 kg more than 1973 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Subaru R-2 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 1973 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1973 Subaru R-2 | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | S-Max | R-2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 1930 mm |
