1952 Ferrari 212 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 57 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1952 Ferrari 212. (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1952 Ferrari 212. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 225 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Ferrari 212 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 212 | SL |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2562 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 80 L |
