1979 Ferrari 400 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Ferrari 400 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 400 (310 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 1173 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Ferrari 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Ferrari 400 | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
Model | 400 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1979 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4823 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 310 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1973 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |