2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford S-Max. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford S-Max would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 131 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | S-Max | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
