2009 Ferrari F430 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Ferrari F430 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 207 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (276 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ferrari F430 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 430 kg more than 2009 Ferrari F430.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ferrari F430. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ferrari F430 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ferrari F430 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F430 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4306 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 483 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 465 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 316 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 18.3 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 88 L |
