1971 BMW 3 vs. 1949 Buick 40
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 22 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 5,249 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (148 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1949 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 3 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5249 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 109.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1865 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3000 mm |
