1996 Ferrari 512 M vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 512 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 512 M would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1996 Ferrari 512 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (422 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari 512 M should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ferrari 512 M weights approximately 215 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ferrari 512 M 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 1996 Ferrari 512 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 Ferrari 512 M (500 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Ferrari 512 M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ferrari 512 M | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 512 M | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1896 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 422 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |
