1978 Ferrari 400 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Ferrari 400. (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
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. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 400 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4724 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2766 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 66 L |
