1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 31 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 (240 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1550 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ferrari 308. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ferrari 308. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 308 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 308 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 79 L |
