1981 Ferrari 512 BBi vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (363 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. (340 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 216 kg more than 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 512 BBi | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 5439 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 363 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 62 L |
