2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 325 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (185 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-Max | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
