1983 Ferrari 400 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 400 (306 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 400 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 540 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 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 1983 Ferrari 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 400 (393 Nm) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm). This means 1983 Ferrari 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Ferrari 400 1998 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ferrari Volkswagen
Model 400 Golf
Year Released 1983 1998
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4823 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 306 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 393 Nm 166 Nm
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78 mm 92.8 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4820 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 118 L 55 L