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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 216 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 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 | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
