1980 Ferrari 308 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1980 Ferrari 308. (240 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Ferrari 308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 696 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 308. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ferrari 308. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ferrari 308. (260 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ferrari 308. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1980 Ferrari 308 has manual transmission. 1980 Ferrari 308 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ferrari 308 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 308 | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 88 L |
