1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 59 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Altima weights approximately 244 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, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Bristol | Nissan |
| Model | 401 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2780 mm |
