1985 Ferrari 208 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ferrari 208 (217 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1545 kg more than 1985 Ferrari 208.
Because 1985 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 1985 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ferrari 208. (240 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ferrari 208 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 208 | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1989 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 | 2830 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 60 L |
