2006 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Ferrari F550
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 5 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, 2001 Ferrari F550 (485 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2006 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ferrari F550 weights approximately 141 kg more than 2006 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW M3 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 2006 BMW M3. 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 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (365 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2001 Ferrari F550 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | M3 | F550 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |
