1949 Buick 40 vs. 1979 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen 1302 is newer by 30 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, 1949 Buick 40 (114 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 945 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. 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 | 1979 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | 40 | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104.8 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 750 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2410 mm |
