The Ford S-Max 2.0 TDCi aut. with a Fendt Saphir 495 TFKM with an actual weight of 1480 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the Ford is in general fairly good. And also the weight of the Fendt with a normally distributed User Payload (200 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is not too heavy, if the caravan is well loaded.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
217
228
Mountains
Risk of snaking
230
150
Weight ratio: 78% (88% of kerbweight)
1480 kg
1888 kg
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Ford S-Max 2.0 TDCi aut. Fendt Saphir 495 TFKM
Actual Weights
Fendt Saphir 495 TFKM: 1480 kg.
Ford S-Max 2.0 TDCi aut.: 1888 kg.
Noseweight: 80 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 78%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally good on flat roads (performance score to compare 217 points).
Speeds of 73 mph (118 km/h) to 79 mph (127 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is more than enough power at low engine speeds (score to compare 228 points).
Higher revs (1600 rpm) are usually not necessary on flat roads, under most circumstances.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 21.3 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally good (score to compare 230 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 16%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (2800 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 62 mph (100 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Ford is more than sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, you will need a B+E (or B96) driving license.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 78%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 88%.
There is a small chance of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are great at high speed. For drivers with knowledge of, and experience in driving a caravan it is safe to drive, but proper and careful loading is still important! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is worth considering.
Recommended noseweight is 80 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 150 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is fairly good.
If the caravan is well loaded safe driving is possible.
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.