2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
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 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang 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 189 kg more than 2003 Ford Mustang.
Because 2003 Ford Mustang 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 2003 Ford Mustang. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford S-Max.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | S-Max | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
