1942 Buick 40 vs. 1957 Porsche 356
To start off, 1957 Porsche 356 is newer by 15 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 5,249 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1942 Buick 40 (163 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1942 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Buick 40 weights approximately 1015 kg more than 1957 Porsche 356. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 Buick 40 | 1957 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Buick | Porsche |
| Model | 40 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5249 cc | 1581 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 790 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2110 mm |
