1985 Ferrari 400 vs. 2001 Ferrari F550
To start off, 2001 Ferrari F550 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Ferrari F550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ferrari F550 (485 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1985 Ferrari 400. (306 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2001 Ferrari F550.
Because 1985 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 1985 Ferrari 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550, 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, 2001 Ferrari F550 (570 Nm) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ferrari 400. (392 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ferrari 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ferrari 400 | 2001 Ferrari F550 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 400 | F550 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4822 cc | 5474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 392 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
