2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1949 Bristol 401
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 55 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 269 kg more than 1949 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 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 1949 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1949 Bristol 401 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Bristol |
| Model | Spider | 401 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2900 mm |
