1980 Ferrari 208 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 208 (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 94 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 208.
Because 1980 Ferrari 208 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 1980 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ferrari 208. (171 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ferrari 208 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 208 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
