1958 Ferrari 340 Spider vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider (296 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 625 kg more than 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider.
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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider has manual transmission. 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Ferrari 340 Spider | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 340 Spider | SLK |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1475 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
