1948 Buick 40 vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1974 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Buick 40 would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1948 Buick 40. (114 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1948 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Buick 40 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
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:
| 1948 Buick 40 | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | 40 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.6 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104.8 mm | 108 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1450 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2750 mm |
