1952 Ferrari 342 America vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 52 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 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (574 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 377 more horse power than 1952 Ferrari 342 America. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1952 Ferrari 342 America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 658 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Ferrari 342 America | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 342 America | CLK |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 574 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 105 L | 92 L |
