1988 BMW 520 vs. 2002 Ferrari 550
To start off, 2002 Ferrari 550 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 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 356 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. 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 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm). This means 2002 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2002 Ferrari 550 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 520 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 5473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 110 L |
