1949 Bristol 400 vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1954 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 400 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Bristol 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Bristol 400 (79 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Bristol 400 should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 400 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Bristol 400 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 1949 Bristol 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 Volkswagen 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 400 | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 400 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |
