1952 Bristol 401 vs. 1997 Ford Royale
To start off, 1997 Ford Royale is newer by 45 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Royale is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Royale (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1952 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Royale should accelerate faster than 1952 Bristol 401.
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, 1997 Ford Royale, 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, 1997 Ford Royale (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Royale will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Bristol 401 | 1997 Ford Royale | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 401 | Royale |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2560 mm |
