1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 416 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 1030 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 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3430 mm |
