1996 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Ferrari 550
To start off, 2002 Ferrari 550 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 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 315 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1996 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. 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 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm). This means 2002 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523. 2002 Ferrari 550 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ferrari 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2002 Ferrari 550 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 523 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 110 L |
