1948 Bristol 401 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 60 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 276 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, 2008 Volvo S60, 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (221 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401. 2008 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1948 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1948 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Bristol | Volvo |
| Model | 401 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 70 L |
