1997 Ferrari F355 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 15 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Ferrari F355. (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ferrari F355. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 590 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm) has 336 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ferrari F355. (363 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ferrari F355. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1997 Ferrari F355 has manual transmission. 1997 Ferrari F355 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ferrari F355 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | F355 | CLS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 363 Nm | 699 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4996 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1407 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2875 mm |