2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
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 New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 348 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 (320 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-Max | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
