1959 Ferrari 256 F1 vs. 1981 Ferrari 208
To start off, 1981 Ferrari 208 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ferrari 256 F1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 would be higher. At 2,474 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 (291 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1981 Ferrari 208. (153 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ferrari 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 745 kg more than 1959 Ferrari 256 F1.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 | 1981 Ferrari 208 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 256 F1 | 208 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 560 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2350 mm |
