2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (109 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 333 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
