1948 Bristol 401 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 35 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) has 46 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Bristol 401 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Bristol 401 weights approximately 523 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 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 1948 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1948 Bristol 401 (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1948 Bristol 401 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 40 L |
