1954 Ferrari 255 S vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 42 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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1954 Ferrari 255 S. (208 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1954 Ferrari 255 S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1140 kg more than 1954 Ferrari 255 S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1954 Ferrari 255 S has manual transmission. 1954 Ferrari 255 S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ferrari 255 S | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 255 S | S |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2713 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
