2004 BMW 316 vs. 1978 Ferrari 312
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 26 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 390 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 775 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 316 | 1978 Ferrari 312 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 316 | 312 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 12200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2140 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1020 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
