1985 Ferrari 400 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 4,822 cc (12 cylinders), 1985 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ferrari 400 (306 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 519 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Ferrari 400 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 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1985 Ferrari 400 (392 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Ferrari 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ferrari 400 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4822 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 392 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1311 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 54 L |
