1948 Bristol 401 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 64 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 121 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 55 L |
