1980 BMW M5 vs. 1942 Buick 40
To start off, 1980 BMW M5 is newer by 38 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 5,249 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1942 Buick 40. (163 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1942 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Buick 40 weights approximately 414 kg more than 1980 BMW M5.
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:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 1942 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M5 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 5249 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1805 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 3000 mm |
