2003 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Ferrari 400
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ferrari 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ferrari 400 would be higher. At 4,823 cc (12 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Ferrari 400. (335 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ferrari 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ferrari 400 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2003 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1978 Ferrari 400 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | M3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4823 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 120 L |
