2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 68 kg more than 1997 Acura RL.
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 @ 1750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura RL. 1997 Acura RL 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. 1997 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1997 Acura RL | |
| Make | Ford | Acura |
| Model | S-Max | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
