1998 Ferrari F355 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Ferrari F355 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,496 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari F355 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari F355 (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 333 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Ferrari F355. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1998 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ferrari F355 | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
Model | F355 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 363 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |