1997 Ferrari F355 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Ferrari F355. (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ferrari F355. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 659 kg more than 1997 Ferrari F355. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 437 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ferrari F355. (363 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ferrari F355.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ferrari F355 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F355 | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2009 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
