2003 BMW M3 vs. 1949 Buick 40
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 54 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, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1949 Buick 40. (148 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1949 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
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:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1949 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M3 | 40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 5249 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 109.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1865 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3000 mm |
