1958 BMW 503 vs. 1942 Buick 40
To start off, 1958 BMW 503 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,066 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 503 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1942 Buick 40. (114 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1942 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Buick 40 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1958 BMW 503.
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:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 1942 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 503 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4066 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 104.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1590 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3000 mm |
