1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 31 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Ferrari 312. (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1978 Ferrari 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 1225 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 312. 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1978 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1978 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 312 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
