1950 Bristol 401 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 54 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 3250 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 225 kg more than 1950 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1950 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 1950 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Bristol 401 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Bristol | Opel |
| Model | 401 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |
