1961 BMW 502 vs. 1951 Ferrari 340 America
To start off, 1961 BMW 502 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Ferrari 340 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Ferrari 340 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1951 Ferrari 340 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Ferrari 340 America (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1951 Ferrari 340 America should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 502 weights approximately 318 kg more than 1951 Ferrari 340 America.
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:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 1951 Ferrari 340 America | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 502 | 340 America |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4101 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1092 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
