1959 Ferrari 256 F1 vs. 1956 Ferrari 500 Testarossa
To start off, 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ferrari 500 Testarossa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ferrari 500 Testarossa would be higher. At 2,474 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 (291 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1956 Ferrari 500 Testarossa. (187 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Ferrari 256 F1 should accelerate faster than 1956 Ferrari 500 Testarossa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ferrari 500 Testarossa weights approximately 120 kg more than 1959 Ferrari 256 F1.
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 Ferrari 256 F1 | 1956 Ferrari 500 Testarossa | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 256 F1 | 500 Testarossa |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 560 kg | 680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2260 mm |
