2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1996 Steyr G-series
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 Steyr G-series. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Steyr G-series would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Steyr G-series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Steyr G-series. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1996 Steyr G-series. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Steyr G-series weights approximately 409 kg more than 2008 Ford S-Max.
Because 1996 Steyr G-series is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford S-Max. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Steyr G-series will offer significantly more control. 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 Steyr G-series (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Steyr G-series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford S-Max. 1996 Steyr G-series 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 Steyr G-series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1996 Steyr G-series | |
| Make | Ford | Steyr |
| Model | S-Max | G-series |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 2090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
