1959 Bristol 406 vs. 2009 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (263 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1959 Bristol 406. (91 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1959 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 369 kg more than 1959 Bristol 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac CTS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Bristol 406. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS will offer significantly more control. 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 CTS (343 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Bristol 406. (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Bristol 406. 2009 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1959 Bristol 406 has manual transmission. 1959 Bristol 406 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Bristol 406 | 2009 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Bristol | Cadillac |
| Model | 406 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 3599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 68 L |
