1955 Bristol 403 vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2002 Saturn L is newer by 47 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn L weights approximately 113 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, 2002 Saturn L, 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, 2002 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403. 2002 Saturn L 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. 2002 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Bristol 403 | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | Bristol | Saturn |
| Model | 403 | L |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |
