2004 Ferrari F430 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Ferrari F430 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,307 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ferrari F430 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ferrari F430 (483 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ferrari F430 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 265 kg more than 2004 Ferrari F430.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Ferrari F430 (474 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2004 Ferrari F430 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ferrari F430 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F430 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4307 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 483 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 474 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 108 L | 80 L |
