1997 Ferrari F355 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ferrari F355. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ferrari F355 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 145 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 1997 Ferrari F355 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 1997 Ferrari F355. 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, 1997 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm). This means 1997 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ferrari F355 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | F355 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 294 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
