1954 Ferrari 255 S vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ferrari 255 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ferrari 255 S would be higher. At 2,713 cc (12 cylinders), 1954 Ferrari 255 S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Ferrari 255 S (208 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (165 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Ferrari 255 S should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 670 kg more than 1954 Ferrari 255 S.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ferrari 255 S | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 255 S | S |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2713 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2950 mm |
