1951 Bristol 401 vs. 1958 Triumph TR3
To start off, 1958 Triumph TR3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Triumph TR3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Triumph TR3 (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Triumph TR3 should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Bristol 401 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1958 Triumph TR3.
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 | 1958 Triumph TR3 | |
| Make | Bristol | Triumph |
| Model | 401 | TR3 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2240 mm |
