1996 Ferrari F512 M vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari F512 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari F512 M would be higher. At 7,255 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Ferrari F512 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari F512 M (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari F512 M should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 390 kg more than 1996 Ferrari F512 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 F512 M (719 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm). This means 1996 Ferrari F512 M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Ferrari F512 M has manual transmission. 1996 Ferrari F512 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ferrari F512 M | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F512 M | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 7255 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 719 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 320 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2090 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
