1950 Bristol 401 vs. 2002 Caterham Superlight R
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1950 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Bristol 401 weights approximately 735 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Bristol 401 | 2002 Caterham Superlight R | |
| Make | Bristol | Caterham |
| Model | 401 | Superlight R |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2230 mm |
