1949 Bristol 401 vs. 1957 Ferrari 255 S
To start off, 1957 Ferrari 255 S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,715 cc (12 cylinders), 1957 Ferrari 255 S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Ferrari 255 S (208 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 Ferrari 255 S should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 401 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1957 Ferrari 255 S.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 1957 Ferrari 255 S | |
| Make | Bristol | Ferrari |
| Model | 401 | 255 S |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2260 mm |
