1950 Bristol 401 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 59 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 410 kg more than 1950 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1950 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 1950 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS, 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, 2009 Cadillac BLS (365 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Bristol 401 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | Bristol | Cadillac |
| Model | 401 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2680 mm |
