1988 Ferrari 348 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 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 187 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ferrari 348 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ferrari 348 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2008 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, 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, 1988 Ferrari 348 (323 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1988 Ferrari 348 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ferrari 348 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 348 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3404 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 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 | 1465 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 60 L |
