2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2010 Ferrari California
To start off, 2010 Ferrari California is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Ferrari California is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Ferrari California (460 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ferrari California should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ferrari California weights approximately 510 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Ferrari California 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 2010 Ferrari California. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2010 Ferrari California (483 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Ferrari California will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2010 Ferrari California | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ferrari |
| Model | A | California |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 460 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 483 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4562 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1308 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 78 L |
