1954 Bristol 403 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 59 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1954 Bristol 403. (86 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1954 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 345 kg more than 1954 Bristol 403. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Bristol 403 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 1954 Bristol 403. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Bristol 403. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1954 Bristol 403 has manual transmission. 1954 Bristol 403 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Bristol 403 | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 403 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2738 mm |
