1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 58 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, 2007 Opel Astra (118 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 170 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, 2007 Opel Astra, 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, 2007 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Bristol | Opel |
| Model | 401 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
