2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 54 kg more than 2008 Ford S-Max. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford S-Max. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | CLS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.8:1 | 12.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
