2010 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2011 Ford S-Max is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 477 more horse power than 2011 Ford S-Max. (128 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1087 kg more than 2011 Ford S-Max. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 680 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford S-Max. (320 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford S-Max.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | S-Max |
| Year Released | 2010 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
