1948 Bristol 401 vs. 1963 Citroen DS
To start off, 1963 Citroen DS is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Bristol 401 (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1963 Citroen DS. (82 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Bristol 401 should accelerate faster than 1963 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Citroen DS weights approximately 55 kg more than 1948 Bristol 401.
Because 1948 Bristol 401 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1948 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 Citroen DS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 1963 Citroen DS | |
| Make | Bristol | Citroen |
| Model | 401 | DS |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1911 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 43 L |
