1952 Ferrari 340 America vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 340 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 340 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 340 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 340 America (218 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 340 America should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 418 kg more than 1952 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:
| 1952 Ferrari 340 America | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 340 America | 280 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1508 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
