1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 1998 Lexus GS
To start off, 1998 Lexus GS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1998 Lexus GS. (290 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus GS weights approximately 1140 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 312.
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. 1998 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1978 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1978 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 312 | 1998 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Ferrari | Lexus |
| Model | 312 | GS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
