1948 Bristol 401 vs. 1969 Citroen DS
To start off, 1969 Citroen DS is newer by 21 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 2,175 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Citroen DS (115 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Citroen DS weights approximately 225 kg more than 1948 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1969 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 | 1969 Citroen DS | |
| Make | Bristol | Citroen |
| Model | 401 | DS |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 65 L |
