1978 Ferrari 400 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 400 (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 337 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ferrari 400 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 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 400 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volvo |
| Model | 400 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
