1981 Ferrari 308 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 5,980 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (604 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 1981 Ferrari 308. (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Ferrari 308.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (1,000 Nm @ 200 RPM) has 740 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ferrari 308. (260 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ferrari 308. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1981 Ferrari 308 has manual transmission. 1981 Ferrari 308 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 308 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 308 | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 5980 cc |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 90 L |
