1949 BMW 340 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 32 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1949 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1949 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 366 kg more than 1949 BMW 340. 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 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 340 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2750 mm |
