1948 Buick 40 vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 33 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 5,249 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Buick 40 (142 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Buick 40 weights approximately 1128 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Buick 40 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1948 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | 40 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5249 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 109.5 mm | 55.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 720 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2300 mm |
