2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 4 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 8 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford S-Max. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | CLS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
