1940s 0-60 & Quarter Mile Times
1940s Automotive Acceleration & Performance Data
Welcome to the ultimate guide to 0-60 mph and quarter mile times for 1940s cars! This page is your go-to resource for the most accurate, comprehensive, and easily accessible performance statistics of classic vehicles from the 1940s. Whether you're a vintage car enthusiast, a historian, or simply fascinated by automotive history, our meticulously curated database offers unparalleled insights into the acceleration and speed of these timeless machines. Explore the remarkable performance of 1940s cars.
1940s Acceleration (0-60 mph & Quarter Mile Times)
1940s 0-60 mph and quarter-mile acceleration times. Narrow down your search via the filters.
| Year | Make | Model | Full Model & Variant | Full Year, Model & Variant | 0-60 mph (Seconds) | 1/4 Mile Time (Seconds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1949 | Ferrari | Ferrari 166 | Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchetta | 1949 Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchetta | 10.00 | 16.30 |
| 1946 | Triumph | Triumph 1800 | Triumph 1800 Roadster | 1946 Triumph 1800 Roadster | 25.10 | |
| 1948 | Triumph | Triumph 1800 | Triumph 1800 Roadster | 1948 Triumph 1800 Roadster | 25.10 | |
| 1949 | Triumph | Triumph 2000 | Triumph 2000 Roadster | 1949 Triumph 2000 Roadster | 24.60 | |
| 1948 | Jaguar | Jaguar XK 120 | Jaguar XK 120 | 1948 Jaguar XK 120 | 9.90 | |
| 1948 | Tucker | Tucker 48 | Tucker 48 | 1948 Tucker 48 | 10.00 | |
| 1946 | Bentley | Bentley Mark VI | Bentley Mark VI | 1946 Bentley Mark VI | 15.00 | |
| 1964 | Trabant | Trabant 601 | Trabant 601 | 1964 Trabant 601 | 21.00 | |
| 1947 | MG | MG TC | MG TC | 1947 MG TC | 22.00 |
The Five Fastest Cars of the 1940s
The Quickest Cars of the 1940s Ranked
The 1940s were a transformative decade for the automotive industry, marked by significant advancements and challenges due to World War II. Early in the decade, production and innovation were largely focused on supporting the war effort, leading to a temporary halt in civilian car manufacturing. However, this period also saw rapid advancements in engineering and technology, particularly in engines. Post-war, the automotive industry experienced a renaissance. Engine technology benefited from wartime innovations, leading to more powerful and efficient designs. The introduction of overhead valve (OHV) engines, like the Cadillac V8 in 1949, set new performance benchmarks. Top brands like Ford, Chevrolet, and Chrysler emerged stronger, producing iconic models that emphasized speed, style, and reliability. Performance improvements were notable, with cars achieving better acceleration and higher top speeds, making the 1940s a pivotal decade in automotive history.
1. 1948 Jaguar XK 120
0 - 60: 9.9 seconds / Quarter Mile: N/A seconds
Summary
The 1948 Jaguar XK 120 was a revelation in the post-war automotive world, a stunningly beautiful sports car that not only captivated onlookers with its elegant design but also boasted impressive performance capabilities that set new benchmarks for its time.
Under its long, flowing hood, the XK 120 housed a groundbreaking 3.4-liter twin-overhead-cam inline-six engine, a technological marvel that produced 160 horsepower. This powerplant, combined with the car's lightweight construction, allowed the XK 120 to achieve a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h), making it the fastest production car in the world at the time of its launch. Its 0 to 60 mph time of around 10 seconds was equally impressive for the era, showcasing the car's remarkable acceleration.
The XK 120's performance wasn't just about straight-line speed. Its independent front suspension and live rear axle, combined with precise steering, provided agile handling and a rewarding driving experience. The car's sleek aerodynamic bodywork also contributed to its performance, reducing drag and improving stability at high speeds.
The XK 120 was not just a performance machine; it was also a work of art. Its elegant curves, flowing lines, and iconic Jaguar grille made it a timeless classic that continues to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts today. The car's interior was equally impressive, featuring luxurious leather upholstery and a wood-veneered dashboard. The 1948 Jaguar XK 120 was a revolutionary car that redefined the sports car segment and set the stage for Jaguar's future success in the automotive world.
2. 1949 Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchetta
0 - 60: 10.0 seconds / Quarter Mile: 16.3 seconds
Summary
The 1949 Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchetta is a legendary sports car that holds a significant place in Ferrari's history and motorsport legacy. This elegant and lightweight barchetta, designed by Carrozzeria Touring, was a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship and performance engineering.
Under its beautiful bodywork, the 166 MM was powered by a 2.0-liter V12 engine, a technological marvel for its time. This engine, designed by Gioacchino Colombo, produced around 140 horsepower, propelling the lightweight car to a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h). This may not seem impressive by today's standards, but it was a remarkable feat for the late 1940s. The car's acceleration was equally impressive, reaching 60 mph in around 10 seconds.
The 166 MM's performance wasn't just about raw power. Its lightweight construction, agile handling, and responsive steering made it a formidable competitor on the racetrack. It dominated numerous prestigious races, including the 1949 Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, cementing Ferrari's reputation as a force to be reckoned with in motorsport. The 166 MM is not just a race car; it's a cultural icon, a symbol of Ferrari's early successes and a testament to the brand's commitment to performance and innovation. Its timeless design and remarkable achievements on the track continue to captivate car enthusiasts today, making it one of the most sought-after and valuable Ferraris ever produced.
3. 1949 Triumph 2000 Roadster
0 - 60: 24.6 seconds / Quarter Mile: N/A seconds
Summary
The 1949 Triumph 2000 Roadster was a stylish and elegant British sports car that embodied the post-war optimism and desire for open-air motoring. While not a powerhouse in terms of raw speed, it offered a comfortable and refined driving experience with a touch of sportiness.
Under the hood, the 2000 Roadster featured a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, a reliable and smooth powerplant that produced 68 horsepower. This engine, paired with a three-speed manual transmission, allowed the car to reach a top speed of around 78 mph (125 km/h). While not blistering by today's standards, it was respectable for the time and offered ample power for leisurely cruising and enjoying the open road.
The 2000 Roadster's performance wasn't just about top speed. It was also known for its comfortable ride and well-balanced handling. The car's independent front suspension and live rear axle, combined with precise steering, provided a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Its bodywork, with its flowing lines and classic roadster proportions, not only looked stunning but also contributed to its aerodynamic efficiency.
The 1949 Triumph 2000 Roadster was a car that prioritized style, comfort, and driving pleasure. It wasn't designed to be a track monster but rather a refined and elegant vehicle for those who enjoyed the simple pleasures of open-top motoring. Its combination of timeless design, comfortable ride, and adequate performance made it a popular choice among British car enthusiasts of the era.
