1996 Ferrari F512 M vs. 1979 Ferrari 400
To start off, 1996 Ferrari F512 M is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 7,255 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Ferrari F512 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari F512 M (376 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Ferrari 400. (306 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari F512 M should accelerate faster than 1979 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1996 Ferrari F512 M.
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, 1996 Ferrari F512 M (719 Nm) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ferrari 400. (392 Nm). This means 1996 Ferrari F512 M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ferrari 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ferrari F512 M | 1979 Ferrari 400 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | F512 M | 400 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 7255 cc | 4823 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 719 Nm | 392 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2090 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
