1949 Bristol 401 vs. 1989 Subaru XT
To start off, 1989 Subaru XT 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 Subaru XT (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 401 weights approximately 61 kg more than 1989 Subaru XT.
Because 1989 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1949 Bristol 401. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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, 1989 Subaru XT (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 1989 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Bristol | Subaru |
| Model | 401 | XT |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 67 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2470 mm |
