2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (182 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 253 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
