1951 Bristol 401 vs. 1984 Citroen CX

To start off, 1984 Citroen CX is newer by 33 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Citroen CX (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Citroen CX should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Citroen CX weights approximately 145 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.

Because 1951 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 1951 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Citroen CX, 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, 1984 Citroen CX (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1984 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Bristol 401.

Compare all specifications:

1951 Bristol 401 1984 Citroen CX
Make Bristol Citroen
Model 401 CX
Year Released 1951 1984
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 72 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 207 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 66 mm 93 mm
Engine Stroke Size 96 mm 92 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1225 kg 1370 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4680 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2860 mm