1963 Ferrari 156 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Ferrari 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Ferrari 156 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 1963 Ferrari 156. (187 HP @ 9500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1963 Ferrari 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1648 kg more than 1963 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1963 Ferrari 156 has manual transmission. 1963 Ferrari 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Ferrari 156 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 156 | SL |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1486 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 870 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 119 L | 80 L |
