1949 Buick 40 vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1973 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 24 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 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (148 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 269 kg more than 1973 Pontiac Firebird.
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 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | 40 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5249 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 109.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1596 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2750 mm |
