1960 Ferrari 256 F1 vs. 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S
To start off, 1960 Ferrari 256 F1 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Ferrari 256 F1 (292 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 Ferrari 256 F1 should accelerate faster than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S weights approximately 960 kg more than 1960 Ferrari 256 F1.
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:
| 1960 Ferrari 256 F1 | 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 256 F1 | 300S |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 560 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 85 L |
