1988 Ferrari 348 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ferrari 348. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ferrari 348 would be higher. At 3,404 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Ferrari 348 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ferrari 348 (295 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ferrari 348 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ferrari 348 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ferrari 348 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 1988 Ferrari 348. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1988 Ferrari 348 (323 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ferrari 348 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ferrari 348 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 348 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3404 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 54 L |
