1949 Buick 40 vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1978 Opel Rekord is newer by 29 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 84 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. 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 | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | 40 | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5249 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1255 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2690 mm |
