1942 Buick 40 vs. 1955 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1955 Ford 12 M is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,066 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1942 Buick 40 (114 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1942 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford 12 M.
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:
| 1942 Buick 40 | 1955 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | 40 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2500 mm |
