1949 Buick 40 vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 1978 Volvo 265 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 4,066 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (114 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 291 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265.
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 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | 40 | 265 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1404 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2660 mm |
