1973 Ferrari 312 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 26 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 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1973 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Ferrari 312 (478 HP @ 12500 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1000 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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ferrari 312 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | E |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 478 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2060 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 910 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2970 mm |
