1989 Ferrari F40 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ferrari F40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ferrari F40 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ferrari F40 (640 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (493 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ferrari F40 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 777 kg more than 1989 Ferrari F40.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ferrari F40. (721 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ferrari F40. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Ferrari F40 has manual transmission. 1989 Ferrari F40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ferrari F40 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F40 | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2936 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 640 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 721 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1263 kg | 2040 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 80 L |
