1953 Ferrari 342 America vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 57 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster 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. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Ferrari 342 America | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 342 America | SL |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 105 L | 80 L |
