1983 Ferrari 208 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 208 would be higher. Both 1983 Ferrari 208 and 2006 Mercedes-Benz A are equipped with a 1,991 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 208 (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 390 kg more than 1983 Ferrari 208.
Because 1983 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 1983 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ferrari 208. (170 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ferrari 208 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 208 | A |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2570 mm |
