2009 Ferrari F430 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Ferrari F430 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,306 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ferrari F430 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ferrari F430 (483 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ferrari F430 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 285 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 Ferrari F430 (465 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ferrari F430 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ferrari F430 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | F430 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 4306 cc | 2798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 483 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 465 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 316 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |