1949 Buick 40 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 63 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, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (114 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40.
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 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | 40 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2968 mm |
