1963 Bristol 408 vs. 1988 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1988 Buick LeSabre is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Bristol 408. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Bristol 408 would be higher. At 5,129 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Bristol 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Bristol 408 (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1988 Buick LeSabre. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Bristol 408 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Bristol 408 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1988 Buick LeSabre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Bristol 408 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 1963 Bristol 408. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick LeSabre, 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, 1963 Bristol 408 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick LeSabre. (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1963 Bristol 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Bristol 408 | 1988 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | Bristol | Buick |
| Model | 408 | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5129 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 68 L |
