1978 Ferrari 400 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 400 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 119 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (216 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ferrari 400. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Ferrari 400 (422 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Ferrari 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1978 Ferrari 400 has manual transmission. 1978 Ferrari 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 400 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 62 L |
