1979 Ferrari 400 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 400 (306 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 170 kg more than 1979 Ferrari 400.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Ferrari 400. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1979 Ferrari 400 has manual transmission. 1979 Ferrari 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 400 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4822 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 118 L | 88 L |
