1949 Bristol 401 vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 40 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 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Escort (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401.
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, 1989 Ford Escort, 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, 1949 Bristol 401 (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1949 Bristol 401 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 401 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 74 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |
