1978 Ferrari 308 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 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 2,927 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 308 (255 HP @ 7700 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 71 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 308.
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, 2004 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, 1978 Ferrari 308 (283 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1978 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 308 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 308 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2927 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
