1971 BMW 3 vs. 1978 Ferrari 312
To start off, 1978 Ferrari 312 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 333 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1978 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:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1978 Ferrari 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 3 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 12200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2140 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1020 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |
