1953 Ferrari 342 America vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 50 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 58 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 910 kg more than 1953 Ferrari 342 America.
Because 1953 Ferrari 342 America is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1953 Ferrari 342 America. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Ferrari 342 America | 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 342 America | V |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3010 mm |
