1956 Ferrari 255 S vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ferrari 255 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ferrari 255 S would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1956 Ferrari 255 S. (208 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1956 Ferrari 255 S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1956 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ferrari 255 S | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 255 S | 420 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2715 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
