2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
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 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (250 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback 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 194 kg more than 2006 Subaru Outback.
Because 2006 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford S-Max. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Outback (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback 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 | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | S-Max | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
