1951 BMW 340 vs. 1959 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1959 Ford Fairlane is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 BMW 340 would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Ford Fairlane (168 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1951 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1951 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 844 kg more than 1951 BMW 340. 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:
| 1951 BMW 340 | 1959 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 340 | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2094 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 5260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3000 mm |
