1955 Bristol 403 vs. 1981 Buick Century

To start off, 1981 Buick Century is newer by 26 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 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Buick Century (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick Century weights approximately 205 kg more than 1955 Bristol 403. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1981 Buick Century (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403.

Compare all specifications:

1955 Bristol 403 1981 Buick Century
Make Bristol Buick
Model 403 Century
Year Released 1955 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1971 cc 3213 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 87 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1225 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4990 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2760 mm


 

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