1951 Buick 40 vs. 1980 Volkswagen 181
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen 181 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,066 cc (8 cylinders), 1951 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Buick 40 weights approximately 735 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen 181.
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 Buick 40 | 1980 Volkswagen 181 | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | 40 | 181 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2410 mm |
