1955 Bristol 403 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (181 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 648 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1955 Bristol 403 has manual transmission. 1955 Bristol 403 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1955 Bristol 403 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make Bristol Chrysler
Model 403 PT Cruiser
Year Released 1955 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1971 cc 2429 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 87 HP 181 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 285 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1225 kg 1873 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2620 mm