1953 Ferrari 342 America vs. 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1953 Ferrari 342 America is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,401 cc (8 cylinders), 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500. (177 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1310 kg more than 1953 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:
| 1953 Ferrari 342 America | 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 342 America | 500 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1943 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 5401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 2400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 105 L | 120 L |
