2001 Acura RSX vs. 1981 Ferrari 208
To start off, 2001 Acura RSX is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 208 would be higher. Both 2001 Acura RSX and 1981 Ferrari 208 are equipped with a 1,991 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1981 Ferrari 208. (153 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1981 Ferrari 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2001 Acura RSX.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Acura RSX, 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, 2001 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ferrari 208. (170 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ferrari 208. 2001 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1981 Ferrari 208 has manual transmission. 1981 Ferrari 208 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RSX | 1981 Ferrari 208 | |
| Make | Acura | Ferrari |
| Model | RSX | 208 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 71 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1256 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2350 mm |
