1955 Bristol 403 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 54 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (176 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 335 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.
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, 2009 Cadillac BLS, 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, 2009 Cadillac BLS (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Bristol 403 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | Bristol | Cadillac |
| Model | 403 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2680 mm |
