1954 Ferrari 375 America vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ferrari 375 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ferrari 375 America would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1954 Ferrari 375 America. (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1954 Ferrari 375 America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 645 kg more than 1954 Ferrari 375 America. 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 SL has automatic transmission and 1954 Ferrari 375 America has manual transmission. 1954 Ferrari 375 America will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ferrari 375 America | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 375 America | SL |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4523 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 140 L | 80 L |
