1949 Bristol 400 vs. 1996 Ford Versailles
To start off, 1996 Ford Versailles is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 400 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Bristol 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Versailles (91 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 400. (79 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Versailles should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 400.
Because 1949 Bristol 400 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 1949 Bristol 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Versailles, 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, 1996 Ford Versailles (144 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 400. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Versailles will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 400 | 1996 Ford Versailles | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 400 | Versailles |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2560 mm |
