1972 BMW 520 vs. 1961 Ferrari 196
To start off, 1972 BMW 520 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ferrari 196. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ferrari 196 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Ferrari 196 (208 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ferrari 196 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1961 Ferrari 196.
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:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1961 Ferrari 196 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 520 | 196 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 650 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2330 mm |
