1948 Bristol 401 vs. 1985 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1985 Ford Taurus is newer by 37 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Taurus (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Taurus weights approximately 220 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, 1985 Ford Taurus, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1985 Ford Taurus (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 1985 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 401 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 45 L |
