2002 Ferrari 550 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2002 Ferrari 550 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,473 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Ferrari 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ferrari 550 (485 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (242 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550, 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, 2002 Ferrari 550 (570 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (401 Nm). This means 2002 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ferrari 550 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 550 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5473 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 320 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 90 L |
