1976 Ferrari 512 BB vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ferrari 512 BB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ferrari 512 BB would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1976 Ferrari 512 BB. (355 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Ferrari 512 BB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1430 kg more than 1976 Ferrari 512 BB. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ferrari 512 BB. (460 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ferrari 512 BB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ferrari 512 BB | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 512 BB | SL |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 6208 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 80 L |
