1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 57 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, 2006 Chevrolet Optra (108 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 525 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, 2006 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Optra (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 2006 Chevrolet Optra | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 401 | Optra |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2610 mm |
