1952 Ferrari 342 America vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 56 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1952 Ferrari 342 America. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1952 Ferrari 342 America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 510 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Ferrari 342 America | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 342 America | CLK |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 105 L | 62 L |
