1998 BMW 316 vs. 1978 Ferrari 312
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 400 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 798 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 312.
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. 1998 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1978 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1978 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 1978 Ferrari 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 316 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 12200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2140 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1020 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
