2001 Ferrari F550 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Ferrari F550 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ferrari F550 (485 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (362 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 350 kg more than 2001 Ferrari F550.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550, 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, 2001 Ferrari F550 (570 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (530 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2001 Ferrari F550 has manual transmission. 2001 Ferrari F550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ferrari F550 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F550 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 299 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3090 mm |
