1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 54 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 344 kg more than 1949 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1949 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1949 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 401 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2850 mm |
