1948 Bristol 401 vs. 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Bristol 401 weights approximately 11 kg more than 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 1948 Bristol 401 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 1948 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 1994 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 401 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1214 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 57 L |
