1996 BMW 540 vs. 1959 Maserati 250
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Maserati 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Maserati 250 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1959 Maserati 250. (232 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1959 Maserati 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 1155 kg more than 1959 Maserati 250. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1959 Maserati 250 | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 540 | 250 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 660 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2160 mm |
