1951 Bristol 401 vs. 2005 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2005 Cadillac DTS is newer by 54 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac DTS (287 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401.
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, 2005 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2005 Cadillac DTS (388 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Bristol 401. 2005 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1951 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1951 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Bristol 401 | 2005 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | Bristol | Cadillac |
| Model | 401 | DTS |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2940 mm |
