1988 BMW M3 vs. 1953 Ferrari 342 America
To start off, 1988 BMW M3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1953 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1953 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 206 kg more than 1953 Ferrari 342 America.
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:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1953 Ferrari 342 America | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | M3 | 342 America |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1953 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 4101 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 105 L |
