2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1988 Maserati Royale
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Maserati Royale. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Maserati Royale would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1988 Maserati Royale. (296 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1988 Maserati Royale. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Maserati Royale weights approximately 824 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 1988 Maserati Royale 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 1988 Maserati Royale. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500, 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. 1988 Maserati Royale has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Maserati Royale will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1988 Maserati Royale | |
| Make | Ford | Maserati |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | Royale |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 4930 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1940 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
