1973 Ferrari 246 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ferrari 246. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ferrari 246 would be higher. At 2,418 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Ferrari 246 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Ferrari 246 (196 HP) has 82 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Ferrari 246 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 160 kg more than 1973 Ferrari 246.
Because 1973 Ferrari 246 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Ferrari 246. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Ferrari 246 (226 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm). This means 1973 Ferrari 246 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ferrari 246 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 246 | A |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2418 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59.9 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2570 mm |
