2002 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. (375 HP @ 8250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider weights approximately 590 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
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, 2002 BMW M3 (480 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider. (363 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | M3 | 355 Spider |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 3494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1690 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2460 mm |
