2008 BMW 523 vs. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (340 HP) has 165 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi weights approximately 219 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 523 | 512 BBi |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4942 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 340 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 451 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 120 L |
