1949 Bristol 401 vs. 1942 Fiat 500
To start off, 1949 Bristol 401 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Bristol 401 (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Bristol 401 should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 401 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1942 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 1942 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Bristol | Fiat |
| Model | 401 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 567 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 14 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2010 mm |
