1978 Ferrari 400 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 34 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 215 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 1978 Ferrari 400 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Ferrari 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (200 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 1978 Ferrari 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 400 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | B |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2699 mm |
