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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Ferrari 308. (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Ferrari 308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 530 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 308. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 118 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 | 4266 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 283 Nm | 401 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1895 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 3090 mm |