1948 Bristol 401 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 58 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 115 kg more than 1948 Bristol 401. 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
1948 Bristol 401 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 401 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1948 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 55 L |