Wondering if a 2006 Ferrari model can be can be compared with the latest BMW M4 released in 2015?

Autocar recently took on an initiative to compare the brand new BMW M4 with the decade-old 2006 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. While the reason for doing the activity was quoted as ‘for fun only’, the fact that both the cars come at the same price compelled the need for the comparison.

Experts dual-tested the critical parameters of the all-new 2015 BMW M4 and a 2006 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. Scalded by the depreciation beast, the price of the 2006 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, which was initially sold at around $325,000, was reduced to the level of a 6-cylinder’s sports car’s price. So the question is whether there is economical and automotive prudence in buying the older Italian thoroughbred powered by the V12 instead of the brand new BMW M4 2015.

While the 612 is powered by the V12 engine to deliver 540 hp, the M4 leverages on a 3L turbocharged inline-six engine to get 425 hp. However, the Ferrari does not reach peak torque till 5,250 rpm, whereas the M4 reaches its peak at 1,850 rpm, thereby enabling the M4 to reach from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds as against the timing of 4.4 seconds of 612.

The top speed of the Ferrari vehicle is 196 mph, while that of the BMW M4 is only 155 mph. Hence, while the M4 accelerates harder, it runs out of steam far earlier than the 612.

The modern BMW M4 employs the latest dual-clutch transmission, a contemporary rear differential and the latest electronically controlled dampers enabling smoother driving experience. On the other hand, the Ferrari 612 features an older version of 2-stage adjustable dampers and an old F1-styled single clutch manual gearbox which evidently reduces both the speed and the smoothness of the drive.

The M4 features an adjustable and electronically controlled steering, whereas the 612’s steering is hydraulic and non-adjustable; although this feature is an advantage in the Ferrari.

The excitement, feel and sheer joy of driving a Ferrari out beats that of the BMW M4 despite the presence of the latest in technologies such as brutal turbocharged torque, super fast DCT and clever electronics in the BMW. Although the suspension in the Ferrari is two-stage, it is more stable and compliant than the M4. While the Ferrari is more analog and old-fashioned yet better to drive, the BMW is, without doubt, the more dynamic of the two.

Autocar recommends ample reasoning to purchase either vehicle: the BMW is more modern and faster, delivers better performance and more useful for today’s living. The exciting Ferrari, with the V12 engine power, delivers an unparalleled driving experience. When it comes down to spending money prudently, however, the BMW M4 wins hands down.

The nominal annual service charges for the Ferrari is around $10,000 while the BMW M4 comes with some of the best guarantee/warranty options cutting down regular service costs considerably.