1986 BMW M5 vs. 1956 Ferrari 255 S
To start off, 1986 BMW M5 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ferrari 255 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ferrari 255 S would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1956 Ferrari 255 S. (208 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1956 Ferrari 255 S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M5 weights approximately 669 kg more than 1956 Ferrari 255 S. 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. 1986 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1956 Ferrari 255 S has manual transmission. 1956 Ferrari 255 S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M5 | 1956 Ferrari 255 S | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | M5 | 255 S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 2715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 159 L |
