1973 Ferrari 312 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 38 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1973 Ferrari 312. (478 HP @ 12500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1973 Ferrari 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1620 kg more than 1973 Ferrari 312. 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ferrari 312 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | CL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 478 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2060 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 910 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2954 mm |
