1979 Ferrari 312 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (317 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1399 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 312 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3150 mm |
