1952 Ferrari 342 America vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 34 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1952 Ferrari 342 America. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1952 Ferrari 342 America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 465 kg more than 1952 Ferrari 342 America. 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. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1952 Ferrari 342 America has manual transmission. 1952 Ferrari 342 America will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1952 Ferrari 342 America | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 342 America | S |
Year Released | 1952 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4101 cc | 4196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
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 | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |