1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 64 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 12 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic 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. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1949 Bristol 401 | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
Model | 401 | Sonic |
Year Released | 1949 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1237 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4399 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1517 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2685 mm |