1978 Ferrari 312 vs. 1981 Ferrari 400
To start off, 1981 Ferrari 400 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1981 Ferrari 400. (306 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 1230 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:
| 1978 Ferrari 312 | 1981 Ferrari 400 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 312 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 4823 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 503 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2140 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
