1973 Ferrari 312 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Ferrari 312 (478 HP @ 12500 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1255 kg more than 1973 Ferrari 312.
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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1973 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1973 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ferrari 312 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 478 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2060 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 910 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2850 mm |
