1949 Bristol 401 vs. 1988 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 1988 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 401 weights approximately 8 kg more than 1988 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 1949 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 1949 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 1988 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Bristol | Hyundai |
| Model | 401 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2660 mm |
