2009 Ford S-Max vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford S-Max is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford S-Max weights approximately 398 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford S-Max. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (305 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford S-Max | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-Max | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
