1998 Ferrari F355 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Ferrari F355 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 303 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari F355 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari F355 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 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, 1998 Ferrari F355 (363 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Ferrari F355 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ferrari F355 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | F355 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
