2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 136 kg more than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. (260 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| 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 | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
