1952 Ferrari 342 America vs. 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial
To start off, 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial. (161 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Ferrari 342 America weights approximately 340 kg more than 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Ferrari 342 America | 1954 Ferrari 500 Mondial | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 342 America | 500 Mondial |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 750 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2260 mm |
