1998 Ferrari 456M vs. 1953 Ferrari 342 America
To start off, 1998 Ferrari 456M is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 456M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 456M (435 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 456M should accelerate faster than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 456M weights approximately 600 kg more than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. 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. 1998 Ferrari 456M has automatic transmission and 1953 Ferrari 342 America has manual transmission. 1953 Ferrari 342 America will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ferrari 456M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ferrari 456M | 1953 Ferrari 342 America | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 456M | 342 America |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1953 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 4101 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 435 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 105 L |
