1949 Buick 40 vs. 1959 Chevrolet Corvair
To start off, 1959 Chevrolet Corvair is newer by 10 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 5,249 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Buick 40 (148 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. 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 Buick 40 | 1959 Chevrolet Corvair | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | 40 | Corvair |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5249 cc | 2286 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1160 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2750 mm |
