1955 Ferrari 255 S vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ferrari 255 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ferrari 255 S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ferrari 255 S (208 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ferrari 255 S should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1955 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:
| 1955 Ferrari 255 S | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 255 S | 280 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2715 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| 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 | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 90 L |
