1949 Buick 40 vs. 1955 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1955 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1955 Ford Thunderbird.
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 Buick 40 | 1955 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | 40 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 5112 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1510 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2600 mm |
