1989 Ferrari 208 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1989 Ferrari 208 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,991 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ferrari 208 (254 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1989 Ferrari 208 (328 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1989 Ferrari 208 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ferrari 208 | 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 208 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 328 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1230 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2480 mm |
