2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1979 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1979 Toyota Corolla. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1979 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 666 kg more than 1979 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Toyota Corolla 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 1979 Toyota Corolla. 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Toyota Corolla. (129 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Toyota Corolla.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford S-Max 1979 Toyota Corolla
Make Ford Toyota
Model S-Max Corolla
Year Released 2008 1979
Body Type Minivan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2521 cc 1769 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 72 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 129 Nm
Torque RPM 1500 RPM 2600 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 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1681 kg 1015 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 4060 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1660 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2410 mm