1983 Ferrari 208 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 208 (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1983 Ferrari 208 (170 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1983 Ferrari 208 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ferrari 208 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 208 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| 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 | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
