1950 Bristol 401 vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 62 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), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (198 HP) has 126 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 42 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 2012 Honda Civic (193 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Bristol 401 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Bristol | Honda |
| Model | 401 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2012 |
| 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 | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 198 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1267 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4276 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1445 mm |
