1979 Ferrari 400 vs. 2002 Ferrari 550
To start off, 2002 Ferrari 550 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 5,473 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Ferrari 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ferrari 550 (485 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1979 Ferrari 400. (315 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 128 kg more than 2002 Ferrari 550.
Because 1979 Ferrari 400 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Ferrari 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Ferrari 550 (570 Nm) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ferrari 400. (412 Nm). This means 2002 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ferrari 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ferrari 400 | 2002 Ferrari 550 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 400 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4823 cc | 5473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 412 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 110 L |
