1952 Bristol 401 vs. 2012 Lincoln MKS
To start off, 2012 Lincoln MKS is newer by 60 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lincoln MKS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lincoln MKS (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1952 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lincoln MKS should accelerate faster than 1952 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lincoln MKS weights approximately 658 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, 2012 Lincoln MKS, 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, 2012 Lincoln MKS (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Lincoln MKS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Bristol 401. 2012 Lincoln MKS has automatic transmission and 1952 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1952 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lincoln MKS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Bristol 401 | 2012 Lincoln MKS | |
| Make | Bristol | Lincoln |
| Model | 401 | MKS |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1883 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5184 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1565 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2868 mm |
