1952 Bristol 401 vs. 1955 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1955 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 4,785 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Thunderbird (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1952 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1952 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 251 kg more than 1952 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:
| 1952 Bristol 401 | 1955 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 401 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 4785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2600 mm |
