1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo would be higher. At 4,942 cc (12 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo (653 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 525 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo weights approximately 735 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo 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 512 BBi Turbo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo (815 Nm) has 635 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm). This means 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo has manual transmission. 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ferrari 512 BBi Turbo | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 512 BBi Turbo | A |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 653 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 815 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
