2009 Ford S-Max vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2009 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 8 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford S-Max. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2009 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford S-Max | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-Max | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
