1953 Alfa Romeo GP 159 vs. 1949 Bristol 401
To start off, 1953 Alfa Romeo GP 159 is newer by 4 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, 1953 Alfa Romeo GP 159 (420 HP @ 9300 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Alfa Romeo GP 159 should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 401 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1953 Alfa Romeo GP 159.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Alfa Romeo GP 159 | 1949 Bristol 401 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Bristol |
| Model | GP 159 | 401 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1949 |
| Engine Size | 1479 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 1225 kg |
