1952 Ferrari 212 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 212. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 212 would be higher. At 2,561 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 212 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 212 (163 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 212 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 500 kg more than 1952 Ferrari 212.
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:
| 1952 Ferrari 212 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 212 | SE |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2561 cc | 2193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.8 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 100 L |
