1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2012 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2012 Nissan Versa is newer by 63 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, 2012 Nissan Versa (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 401 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2012 Nissan Versa.
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, 2012 Nissan Versa, 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 2012 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Bristol | Nissan |
| Model | 401 | Versa |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1100 kg |
