2001 Ferrari F550 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Ferrari F550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ferrari F550 (485 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 120 kg more than 2001 Ferrari F550.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ferrari F550 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F550 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 2798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 299 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
