2009 Ford S-Max vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Ford S-Max is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2009 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 78 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford S-Max | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | CLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
