1951 Bristol 401 vs. 1972 Buick GS
To start off, 1972 Buick GS is newer by 21 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 5,723 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Buick GS weights approximately 405 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Bristol 401 | 1972 Buick GS | |
| Make | Bristol | Buick |
| Model | 401 | GS |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 5723 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 394 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2860 mm |
