1981 Ferrari 512 BBi vs. 1956 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (340 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi weights approximately 894 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | 1956 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | Ferrari | Porsche |
| Model | 512 BBi | 550 A |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1498 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2110 mm |
