1981 Ferrari 208 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 208 (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ferrari 208 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 1981 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 1981 Ferrari 208 (170 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 208 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 208 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 208 | B |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2780 mm |
