2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2003 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RL (225 HP) has 87 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 2003 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) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RL. (313 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RL. 2003 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. 2003 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2003 Acura RL | |
| Make | Ford | Acura |
| Model | S-Max | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| 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 | 225 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 313 Nm |
| 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 |
