2003 BMW 520 vs. 1978 Ferrari 312
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 25 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 336 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 1100 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. 2003 BMW 520 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. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1978 Ferrari 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 520 | 312 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 12200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2140 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1020 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
