1978 Ferrari 400 vs. 1954 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1978 Ferrari 400 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 400 (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. (83 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 400 | 1954 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 2193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
