1980 Ferrari 512 BB vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ferrari 512 BB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ferrari 512 BB would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1980 Ferrari 512 BB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 512 BB (355 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 512 BB should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1378 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 512 BB.

Because 1980 Ferrari 512 BB 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 512 BB. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 512 BB (460 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1980 Ferrari 512 BB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Ferrari 512 BB 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
Make Ferrari Mercedes-Benz
Model 512 BB A
Year Released 1980 2012
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 1989 cc
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 355 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 460 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 1600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Top Speed 277 km/hour 186 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1452 kg 2830 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 3840 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1130 mm 1600 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 110 L 60 L