1948 Bristol 400 vs. 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 400 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Bristol 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Bristol 400 (79 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Bristol 400 should accelerate faster than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Bristol 400 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1948 Bristol 400 | 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 400 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
