2002 Ferrari 550 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ferrari 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ferrari 550 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 257 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm). This means 2002 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ferrari 550 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 550 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5473 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Top Speed | 320 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 80 L |
