1949 Bristol 400 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 400 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Bristol 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 400. (79 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 400 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra.
Because 1949 Bristol 400 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 1949 Bristol 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra, 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, both vehicles can yield 125 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 400 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Bristol | Opel |
| Model | 400 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
