2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
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 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (167 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 87 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
