1952 Bristol 401 vs. 2009 Porsche 911
To start off, 2009 Porsche 911 is newer by 57 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 3,824 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Porsche 911 (350 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1952 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1952 Bristol 401.
Because 2009 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1952 Bristol 401. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Porsche 911 (400 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Bristol 401 | 2009 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Bristol | Porsche |
| Model | 401 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3824 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2360 mm |
