1952 Ferrari 212 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 51 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1952 Ferrari 212. (163 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1952 Ferrari 212. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 935 kg more than 1952 Ferrari 212. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1952 Ferrari 212 has manual transmission. 1952 Ferrari 212 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:
| 1952 Ferrari 212 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 212 | S |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2561 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 88 L |
