1980 Ferrari 308 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 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 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 308 (240 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 59 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Ferrari 308 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1980 Ferrari 308 (260 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ferrari 308 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 308 | A |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 60 L |
