1955 Bristol 403 vs. 1970 Saab Sonett III
To start off, 1970 Saab Sonett III is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Bristol 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Bristol 403 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Bristol 403 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Bristol 403 (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Bristol 403 should accelerate faster than 1970 Saab Sonett III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Bristol 403 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1970 Saab Sonett III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Bristol 403. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Saab Sonett III, 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, 1955 Bristol 403 (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Saab Sonett III. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1955 Bristol 403 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Saab Sonett III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Bristol 403 | 1970 Saab Sonett III | |
| Make | Bristol | Saab |
| Model | 403 | Sonett III |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2160 mm |
