1979 Ferrari 400 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 4,822 cc (12 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 400 (306 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 400 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4822 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
