Ferrari Testarossa

vs

Isdera Imperator 108i

Italy vs West Germany — 1984 vs 1984

Ferrari Testarossa (1984)
Isdera Imperator 108i (1984)
Specifications
Testarossa TestarossaImperator 108i
Horsepower390 hp326 hp
Torque361 lb-ft339 lb-ft
Engine Size4,942 cc4,973 cc
0-60 mph5.2 sec5.0 sec
Top Speed180 mph174 mph
¼ Mile13.3 sec13.0 sec
Weight3,320 lbs2,976 lbs
Wheelbase2,550 mm2,500 mm
Length4,485 mm4,340 mm
Units Produced10,00017
Original MSRP$87,000$180,000
Value (Excellent)$300,000$1,500,000
Collectibility8/1010/10
Rarity5/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1984 Ferrari Testarossa Testarossa brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Italy and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1984 Ferrari Testarossa Testarossa versus 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1984 Ferrari Testarossa Testarossa holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 326 hp, a 64-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari Testarossa uses a Flat-12 DOHC 48V displacing 4,942 cc, while the Isdera Imperator 108i relies on a V8 DOHC 32V with 4,973 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 5.2 seconds. The Isdera Imperator 108i carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 344 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 17 units built, the 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari Testarossa's 10,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i commands a significant premium over the 1984 Ferrari Testarossa Testarossa, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1984 Isdera Imperator 108i rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.