1959 BMW 503 vs. 1980 Ferrari 312
To start off, 1980 Ferrari 312 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 503 weights approximately 890 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 312.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 1980 Ferrari 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 503 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 508 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 12300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
