1988 Ferrari 348 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ferrari 348. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ferrari 348 would be higher. At 3,404 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Ferrari 348 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ferrari 348 (295 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ferrari 348 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ferrari 348 weights approximately 199 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ferrari 348 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 1988 Ferrari 348. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1988 Ferrari 348 (323 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1988 Ferrari 348 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ferrari 348 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 348 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3404 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 295 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 55 L |
