1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 vs. 1984 Rover Vitesse
To start off, 1984 Rover Vitesse is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 would be higher. At 3,531 cc (8 cylinders), 1984 Rover Vitesse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 (276 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1984 Rover Vitesse. (187 HP @ 5280 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 should accelerate faster than 1984 Rover Vitesse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Rover Vitesse weights approximately 720 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196.
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 Mercedes-Benz W 196 | 1984 Rover Vitesse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rover |
| Model | W 196 | Vitesse |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1984 |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3531 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5280 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1440 kg |
