1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 2002 Ferrari 550
To start off, 2002 Ferrari 550 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 5,473 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Ferrari 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ferrari 550 (485 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1978 Ferrari 308. (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ferrari 308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 308. 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, 2002 Ferrari 550, 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, 2002 Ferrari 550 (570 Nm) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ferrari 308. (283 Nm). This means 2002 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ferrari 308. 2002 Ferrari 550 has automatic transmission and 1978 Ferrari 308 has manual transmission. 1978 Ferrari 308 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ferrari 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ferrari 308 | 2002 Ferrari 550 | |
Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
Model | 308 | 550 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2927 cc | 5473 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 485 HP |
Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 7250 RPM |
Torque | 283 Nm | 570 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 74.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1940 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2610 mm |