1996 BMW M3 vs. 1976 Ferrari 512 BB
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ferrari 512 BB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ferrari 512 BB would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1976 Ferrari 512 BB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ferrari 512 BB (355 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ferrari 512 BB should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 188 kg more than 1976 Ferrari 512 BB.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Ferrari 512 BB (460 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 1976 Ferrari 512 BB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1976 Ferrari 512 BB | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | M3 | 512 BB |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
