1983 Ferrari 308 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1983 Ferrari 308 is newer by 5 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 2,855 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 308 (205 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 610 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 1983 Ferrari 308 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 308. 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, 1983 Ferrari 308 (246 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Ferrari 308 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
Model | 308 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2855 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 205 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 246 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |