1984 Ferrari 208 vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ferrari 208 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1984 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Ferrari 208 (217 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 1022 kg more than 1984 Ferrari 208.
Because 1984 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 1984 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ferrari 208. (240 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ferrari 208.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ferrari 208 | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 208 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
