2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2004 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 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 447 kg more than 2004 BMW Z4.
Because 2004 BMW Z4 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 2004 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW Z4. 2004 BMW Z4 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. 2004 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2004 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | S-Max | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
