1953 Ferrari 342 America vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1953 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 506 kg more than 1953 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. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1953 Ferrari 342 America has manual transmission. 1953 Ferrari 342 America will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1953 Ferrari 342 America | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 342 America | 380 |
Year Released | 1953 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4101 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2940 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 105 L | 90 L |