1979 Ferrari 312 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 22 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 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 347 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 685 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 312 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
