1981 Ferrari 512 BBi vs. 1988 Porsche 911
To start off, 1988 Porsche 911 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi 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 94 more horse power than 1988 Porsche 911. (246 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi should accelerate faster than 1988 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi weights approximately 49 kg more than 1988 Porsche 911. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Porsche 911. (310 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Porsche 911.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | 1988 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Porsche |
| Model | 512 BBi | 911 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 76.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 77 L |
