1948 Bristol 401 vs. 2007 Opel Signum
To start off, 2007 Opel Signum is newer by 59 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 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Signum weights approximately 385 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, 2007 Opel Signum, 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, 2007 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 2007 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Bristol | Opel |
| Model | 401 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 60 L |
