1952 Ferrari 342 America vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 37 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 33 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 430 kg more than 1952 Ferrari 342 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 342 America | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 342 America | S |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2950 mm |
