1949 Bristol 400 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 62 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 400. (79 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 215 kg more than 1949 Bristol 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 400. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 400 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Bristol | Opel |
| Model | 400 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
