1949 BMW 340 vs. 1959 Peugeot 203
To start off, 1959 Peugeot 203 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 BMW 340 (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1959 Peugeot 203. (44 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 BMW 340 should accelerate faster than 1959 Peugeot 203. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 BMW 340 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1959 Peugeot 203. 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:
| 1949 BMW 340 | 1959 Peugeot 203 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 340 | 203 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2580 mm |
