2001 Ferrari F550 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ferrari F550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ferrari F550 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2001 Ferrari F550. (485 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Ferrari F550. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 260 kg more than 2001 Ferrari F550. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 431 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ferrari F550. (570 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ferrari F550. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ferrari F550 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F550 | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Top Speed | 299 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
