1973 Ferrari 246 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ferrari 246. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ferrari 246 would be higher. At 2,418 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Ferrari 246 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Ferrari 246 (196 HP) has 94 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (102 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Ferrari 246 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 212 kg more than 1973 Ferrari 246.
Because 1973 Ferrari 246 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 1973 Ferrari 246. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Ferrari 246 (226 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm). This means 1973 Ferrari 246 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ferrari 246 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 246 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2418 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 102 HP |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59.9 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
