1980 Ferrari 312 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1980 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 1390 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 312.
Because 1980 Ferrari 312 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 312. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V, 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V has automatic transmission and 1980 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1980 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ferrari 312 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 312 | V |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1030 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
