1974 Ferrari 308 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ferrari 308 (247 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 420 kg more than 1974 Ferrari 308.
Because 1974 Ferrari 308 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 1974 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1974 Ferrari 308 (290 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1974 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1974 Ferrari 308 has manual transmission. 1974 Ferrari 308 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ferrari 308 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 308 | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2570 mm |
