1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1978 Ferrari 312 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300. (238 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 786 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 312.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 312 | 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
