2009 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Ferrari 400
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 31 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, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Ferrari 400. (335 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ferrari 400.
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:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1978 Ferrari 400 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | M3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 4823 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 120 L |
