1961 Ferrari 156 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ferrari 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ferrari 156 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 (240 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1961 Ferrari 156. (187 HP @ 9500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1961 Ferrari 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1160 kg more than 1961 Ferrari 156. 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. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1961 Ferrari 156 has manual transmission. 1961 Ferrari 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Ferrari 156 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 156 | 500 |
Year Released | 1961 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1486 cc | 4973 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 9500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 870 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2940 mm |