1978 Ferrari 400 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 34 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 98 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton. (237 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 485 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 400.
Because 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ferrari 400. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1978 Ferrari 400 has manual transmission. 1978 Ferrari 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ferrari 400 | 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 400 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3001 mm |
