1978 Ferrari 400 vs. 1997 McLaren F1
To start off, 1997 McLaren F1 is newer by 19 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 6,063 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 McLaren F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 McLaren F1 (618 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1978 Ferrari 400. (335 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 McLaren F1 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1997 McLaren F1.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 400 | 1997 McLaren F1 | |
| Make | Ferrari | McLaren |
| Model | 400 | F1 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 6063 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
