1952 Bristol 401 vs. 1972 Citroen DS
To start off, 1972 Citroen DS is newer by 20 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 2,347 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen DS (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1952 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1952 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 47 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.
Because 1952 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 1952 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS, 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, 1972 Citroen DS (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
1952 Bristol 401 | 1972 Citroen DS | |
Make | Bristol | Citroen |
Model | 401 | DS |
Year Released | 1952 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2347 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 85.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1272 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3130 mm |