1953 Ferrari 342 America vs. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 42 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, 1953 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 740 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. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Ferrari 342 America | 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 342 America | SL |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 225 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 | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 105 L | 80 L |
