1986 Ferrari Testarossa vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ferrari Testarossa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ferrari Testarossa would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1986 Ferrari Testarossa. (390 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Ferrari Testarossa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 455 kg more than 1986 Ferrari Testarossa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SL (720 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ferrari Testarossa. (475 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ferrari Testarossa. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 Ferrari Testarossa has manual transmission. 1986 Ferrari Testarossa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ferrari Testarossa 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Ferrari Mercedes-Benz
Model Testarossa SL
Year Released 1986 2008
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 4941 cc 5439 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 390 HP 510 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 475 Nm 720 Nm
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.7:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 290 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1955 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1980 mm 1820 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2570 mm