1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is newer by 34 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage. (430 HP @ 7300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage weights approximately 1010 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. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage 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. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 312 | 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage | |
| Make | Ferrari | Aston Martin |
| Model | 312 | V8 Vantage |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 430 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4382 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1867 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2601 mm |
