1956 Maserati 350S vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Maserati 350S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Maserati 350S would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1956 Maserati 350S. (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 Maserati 350S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1280 kg more than 1956 Maserati 350S. 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1956 Maserati 350S has manual transmission. 1956 Maserati 350S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Maserati 350S | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 350S | SL |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3483 cc | 7291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2520 mm |
