1955 Bristol 403 vs. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 53 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Bristol 403 weights approximately 109 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
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, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500, 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, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 505 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Bristol 403 | 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 403 | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2730 mm |
