1954 Bristol 403 vs. 1988 TVR S2
To start off, 1988 TVR S2 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Bristol 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Bristol 403 would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 TVR S2 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1954 Bristol 403. (86 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 1954 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Bristol 403 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1988 TVR S2.
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, 1988 TVR S2 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Bristol 403.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Bristol 403 | 1988 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Bristol | TVR |
| Model | 403 | S2 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2290 mm |
