Germany vs Italy — 1986 vs 2017
| 560 SEC W126 | 812 Superfast | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 789 hp |
| Torque | 336 lb-ft | 530 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,547 cc | 6,496 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 2.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 211 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.6 sec | 10.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,902 lbs | 3,594 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm | 2,720 mm |
| Length | 4,935 mm | 4,657 mm |
| Units Produced | 28,929 | 4,000 |
| Original MSRP | $73,500 | $335,275 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $500,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
The 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC W126 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC W126 against the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus Italy. The 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast holds a clear advantage in raw power with 789 hp compared to 300 hp, a 489-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC uses a V8 SOHC 16V displacing 5,547 cc, while the Ferrari 812 Superfast relies on a V12 DOHC with 6,496 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast edges ahead at 2.8 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. The Ferrari 812 Superfast carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 308 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,000 units built, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC's 28,929 examples. On the collector market, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast commands a significant premium over the 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC W126, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.