1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 308 (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (241 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 585 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 308.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ferrari 308. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ferrari 308. (283 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ferrari 308. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1978 Ferrari 308 has manual transmission. 1978 Ferrari 308 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 308 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 308 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2970 mm |
