301 redirect gives 500 server error

[seonewbee]

I install the code below in a htaccess file and I get a 500 server error when I try and access the site. Remove the file and it workds fine. What am I doing wrong? This is all that the .htaccess file contains.. Why do I get the 500 error? Thanks for your help

Redirect 301 /old.html http://www.example.com/new.html

[seonewbee]

I got the page to be redirected using mod rewrite instead. Sent a letter to my hosting company and they never replied. Guess I have better look for a new host in a few months when my account expires.

Which is better, mod rewrite or 301 redirect?