1949 Buick 40 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 49 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 11 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Buick 40 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1949 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | 40 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104.8 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1230 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
