1950 Ferrari 340 America vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Ferrari 340 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Ferrari 340 America would be higher. At 4,102 cc (12 cylinders), 1950 Ferrari 340 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1950 Ferrari 340 America (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1950 Ferrari 340 America should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1950 Ferrari 340 America.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Ferrari 340 America | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 340 America | 280 |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4102 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1560 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2830 mm |
