2001 Ferrari F550 vs. 2009 Ferrari F430
To start off, 2009 Ferrari F430 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ferrari F550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ferrari F550 would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Ferrari F550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ferrari F430 (503 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2001 Ferrari F550. (485 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ferrari F430 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ferrari F550. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ferrari F550 weights approximately 232 kg more than 2009 Ferrari F430.
Because 2009 Ferrari F430 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Ferrari F430. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Ferrari F550 (570 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ferrari F430. (470 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ferrari F430.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ferrari F550 | 2009 Ferrari F430 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ferrari |
| Model | F550 | F430 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 4308 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 299 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
