1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Ferrari 308 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 308 (240 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen 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, 1978 Ferrari 308 (265 Nm) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1978 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 308 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 308 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 40 L |
