2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1994 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1994 Nissan Maxima. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1994 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 361 kg more than 1994 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Nissan Maxima. (253 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1994 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | S-Max | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 253 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
