1979 Ferrari 312 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 1979 Ferrari 312 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. (225 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1979 Ferrari 312.
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. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 1979 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1979 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 312 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | 450 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2820 mm |
