1948 Bristol 401 vs. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 53 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 155 kg more than 1948 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1948 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1948 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 401 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2720 mm |
