1977 Ferrari 400 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1977 Ferrari 400. (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 125 kg more than 1977 Ferrari 400. 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1977 Ferrari 400 has manual transmission. 1977 Ferrari 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ferrari 400 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | SL |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 80 L |
