1990 BMW 316 vs. 2001 Ferrari F550
To start off, 2001 Ferrari F550 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 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 385 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ferrari F550 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2001 Ferrari F550 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 316 | F550 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 5474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
