1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 30 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 147 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 75 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 308.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1978 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 308 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 308 | B |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2780 mm |
