1996 Ferrari 550 vs. 1983 Ferrari 126
To start off, 1996 Ferrari 550 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 126 would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Ferrari 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 126 (594 HP @ 10500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1996 Ferrari 550. (485 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 126 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ferrari 550. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 1110 kg more than 1983 Ferrari 126.
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 Ferrari 550 | 1983 Ferrari 126 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | 550 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 594 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 10500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2610 mm |
