2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 57 kg more than 2008 Ford S-Max. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford S-Max. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2008 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford S-Max | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S-Max | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 580 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |