1965 Bristol 409 vs. 1986 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1986 GMC Suburban is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Bristol 409. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Bristol 409 would be higher. At 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 Bristol 409 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Bristol 409 (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1986 GMC Suburban. (154 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Bristol 409 should accelerate faster than 1986 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 GMC Suburban weights approximately 640 kg more than 1965 Bristol 409.
Because 1986 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1965 Bristol 409. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 GMC Suburban 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, 1965 Bristol 409 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 GMC Suburban. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1965 Bristol 409 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Bristol 409 | 1986 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Bristol | GMC |
| Model | 409 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5211 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3300 mm |
