1971 BMW 3 vs. 1952 Ferrari 255 S
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 255 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 255 S would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 255 S (208 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 255 S should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1952 Ferrari 255 S.
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:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1952 Ferrari 255 S | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 3 | 255 S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2260 mm |
