1996 Ferrari 512 M vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 512 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 512 M would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (422 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari 512 M should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 430 kg more than 1996 Ferrari 512 M.
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, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (500 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Ferrari 512 M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1996 Ferrari 512 M has manual transmission. 1996 Ferrari 512 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ferrari 512 M | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 512 M | CL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 4964 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 422 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2890 mm |
