1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 33 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (402 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 1135 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 312 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2875 mm |
