1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1900 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 312.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ferrari 312. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL 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 GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 312 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | GL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3076 mm |
