1956 Maserati 350S vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Maserati 350S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Maserati 350S would be higher. At 3,483 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Maserati 350S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Maserati 350S (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Maserati 350S should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1956 Maserati 350S.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1956 Maserati 350S has manual transmission. 1956 Maserati 350S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Maserati 350S | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Maserati | BMW |
| Model | 350S | 318 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3483 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2710 mm |
