1951 Bristol 401 vs. 1942 Buick 40
To start off, 1951 Bristol 401 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,066 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1942 Buick 40 (123 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1942 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Buick 40 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1951 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1951 Bristol 401 | 1942 Buick 40 | |
| Make | Bristol | Buick |
| Model | 401 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4066 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1655 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3000 mm |
