1981 Ferrari 400 vs. 1957 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1981 Ferrari 400 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 400 (306 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 1090 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ferrari 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 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:
| 1981 Ferrari 400 | 1957 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 400 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| 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 | 306 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1560 mm |
