1978 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2010 Ferrari California
To start off, 2010 Ferrari California is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Ferrari California is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Ferrari California (460 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ferrari California should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ferrari California weights approximately 915 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Ferrari California 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 2010 Ferrari California. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Ferrari California (483 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Ferrari California will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | 2010 Ferrari California | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ferrari |
| Model | Beetle | California |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 460 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 483 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4562 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2670 mm |
