1972 Maserati Ghibli vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Maserati Ghibli. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Maserati Ghibli would be higher. At 4,929 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Maserati Ghibli is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Maserati Ghibli (331 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Maserati Ghibli should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 365 kg more than 1972 Maserati Ghibli.
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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1972 Maserati Ghibli has manual transmission. 1972 Maserati Ghibli will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Maserati Ghibli | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ghibli | CLS |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 4929 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 331 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2875 mm |
