1953 Ferrari 255 S vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 59 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Ferrari 255 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Ferrari 255 S would be higher. At 2,713 cc (12 cylinders), 1953 Ferrari 255 S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Ferrari 255 S (208 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (201 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Ferrari 255 S should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 650 kg more than 1953 Ferrari 255 S.
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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1953 Ferrari 255 S has manual transmission. 1953 Ferrari 255 S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Ferrari 255 S | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 255 S | SLK |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2713 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 60 L |
