1953 Ferrari 342 America vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 52 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 825 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.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Ferrari 342 America | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 342 America | S |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 105 L | 88 L |
