1954 BMW 340 vs. 1943 Maserati 8CL
To start off, 1954 BMW 340 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1943 Maserati 8CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1943 Maserati 8CL would be higher. At 2,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1943 Maserati 8CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1943 Maserati 8CL (424 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 1954 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1943 Maserati 8CL should accelerate faster than 1954 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 BMW 340 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1943 Maserati 8CL.
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:
| 1954 BMW 340 | 1943 Maserati 8CL | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 340 | 8CL |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1943 |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 424 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 780 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2800 mm |
