2009 Ferrari F430 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Ferrari F430 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,308 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ferrari F430 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ferrari F430 (503 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 415 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ferrari F430 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ferrari F430 weights approximately 363 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ferrari F430 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 Ferrari F430. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Ferrari F430 (470 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Ferrari F430 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2009 Ferrari F430 has manual transmission. 2009 Ferrari F430 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ferrari F430 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F430 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4308 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 320 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 3.6 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 54 L |
