2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 274 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-Max | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
