1949 Buick 40 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 64 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (296 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 160 kg more than 1949 Buick 40. 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 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | 40 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1805 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2760 mm |
