1989 Ferrari 208 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ferrari 208 (254 HP) has 195 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1989 Ferrari 208 (328 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1989 Ferrari 208 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ferrari 208 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 208 | A |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 328 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 54 L |
