1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 1954 Buick 40
To start off, 1978 Alpine A 442 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1954 Buick 40. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1954 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Buick 40 weights approximately 935 kg more than 1978 Alpine A 442.
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:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 1954 Buick 40 | |
| Make | Alpine | Buick |
| Model | A 442 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4328 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1675 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3110 mm |
