1948 Bristol 401 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Bristol 401 (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Bristol 401 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Bristol 401 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1961 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 401 | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 42 L |
