1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 308 (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1978 Ferrari 308 (283 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1978 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ferrari 308 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 308 | A |
Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2927 cc | 1689 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 88 HP |
Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 283 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1115 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2600 mm |