1984 Ferrari 208 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Ferrari 208 (217 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 60 kg more than 1984 Ferrari 208.
Because 1984 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 1984 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ferrari 208. (240 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ferrari 208 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 208 | A |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 60 L |
