1991 BMW M12 vs. 1956 Buick 40
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,279 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1956 Buick 40. (252 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1956 Buick 40.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1956 Buick 40 (462 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW M12. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1956 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW M12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1956 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M12 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 5279 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 462 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3110 mm |
