1952 Ferrari 212 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 212. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 212 would be higher. At 2,561 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 212 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 212 (163 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 212 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Ferrari 212 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 Ferrari 212 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 1952 Ferrari 212. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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. 1981 Volkswagen Santana has automatic transmission and 1952 Ferrari 212 has manual transmission. 1952 Ferrari 212 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Ferrari 212 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 212 | Santana |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2561 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 60 L |
