1951 Bristol 401 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 61 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401.
Because 1951 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 1951 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Bristol 401 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 401 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
