1998 Ferrari 355 Spider vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 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 138 more horse power than 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. (237 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider should accelerate faster than 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 440 kg more than 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (617 Nm) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. (363 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 355 Spider | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3494 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 617 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 15.5 :1 |
| Top Speed | 294 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3165 mm |
