1974 Ferrari 308 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ferrari 308 (247 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 34 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1974 Ferrari 308 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 1974 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1974 Ferrari 308 (290 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1974 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Ferrari 308 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ferrari Volkswagen
Model 308 Golf
Year Released 1974 1997
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 1780 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 5 valves
Horse Power 247 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 7700 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 290 Nm 195 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1365 kg 1331 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1220 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2470 mm