2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 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 520 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
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 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | S-Max | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
