2008 BMW 318 vs. 2001 Ferrari F550
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 7 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 365 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ferrari F550 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318. 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 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (280 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2001 Ferrari F550 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 318 | F550 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 485 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
