1979 Ferrari 312 vs. 2006 BMW 316
To start off, 2006 BMW 316 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 2006 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 316 weights approximately 860 kg more than 1979 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. 2006 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1979 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1979 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 312 | 2006 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Ferrari | BMW |
| Model | 312 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
