1998 Ferrari 355 Spider vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider would be higher. At 3,494 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider (375 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider weights approximately 620 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider (363 Nm) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm). This means 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider has manual transmission. 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 355 Spider | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3494 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Top Speed | 294 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 54 L |
