1953 Bristol 403 vs. 1976 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1976 Datsun 280Z is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Bristol 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Bristol 403 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1953 Bristol 403. (86 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1953 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Bristol 403 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1976 Datsun 280Z.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Bristol 403. 1976 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1953 Bristol 403 has manual transmission. 1953 Bristol 403 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Bristol 403 | 1976 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Bristol | Datsun |
| Model | 403 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 60 L |
