2009 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford S-Max. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford S-Max would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2006 Ford S-Max. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford S-Max.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford S-Max.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2006 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
