1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 1953 Ferrari 342 America
To start off, 1978 Ferrari 308 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1953 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 308 (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1953 Ferrari 342 America. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1978 Ferrari 308 | 1953 Ferrari 342 America | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 308 | 342 America |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1953 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 4101 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2660 mm |
