2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2003 Subaru Outback
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 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 211 kg more than 2003 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru Outback 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, 2003 Subaru Outback 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 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Outback. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Outback. 2003 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2003 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | S-Max | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
