1986 Ferrari 412 GT vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Ferrari 412 GT is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,942 cc (12 cylinders), 1986 Ferrari 412 GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ferrari 412 GT (340 HP) has 291 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ferrari 412 GT should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ferrari 412 GT weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Ferrari 412 GT 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 1986 Ferrari 412 GT. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1986 Ferrari 412 GT (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Ferrari 412 GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ferrari 412 GT | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 412 GT | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1885 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 45 L |
