Italy vs Italy — 1947 vs 1976
| 125 S | 512 BB | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 360 hp |
| Torque | 83 lb-ft | 333 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,497 cc | 4,942 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 5.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 106 mph | 174 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 13.4 sec |
| Weight | 1,654 lbs | 3,340 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 4,400 mm |
| Units Produced | 2 | 929 |
| Original MSRP | — | $83,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $10,000,000 | $550,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1947 Ferrari 125 S brings lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1976 Ferrari 512 BB answers with more power, higher top speed, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Ferrari has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1947 Ferrari 125 S with the 1976 Ferrari 512 BB highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1976 Ferrari 512 BB holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 118 hp, a 242-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ferrari 125 S uses a V12 SOHC displacing 1,497 cc, while the Ferrari 512 BB relies on a Flat-12 DOHC with 4,942 cc. The 1976 Ferrari 512 BB claims a higher top speed at 174 mph compared to 106 mph. The Ferrari 125 S carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1686 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2 units built, the 1947 Ferrari 125 S is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari 512 BB's 929 examples. On the collector market, the 1947 Ferrari 125 S commands a significant premium over the 1976 Ferrari 512 BB, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1947 Ferrari 125 S rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.