1948 Buick 40 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 50 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, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1948 Buick 40. (142 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1948 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Buick 40 weights approximately 437 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
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, 1998 Ford Contour, 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 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | 40 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5249 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 109.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1411 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2730 mm |
