1988 BMW 520 vs. 1942 Buick 40
To start off, 1988 BMW 520 is newer by 46 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, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1942 Buick 40. (123 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1942 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Buick 40 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1988 BMW 520.
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:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1942 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 520 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 4066 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1655 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3000 mm |
