1949 Bristol 400 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 28 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 36 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Bristol 400 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Bristol 400 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1977 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, 1977 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. Let's talk about torque, 1949 Bristol 400 (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1949 Bristol 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1949 Bristol 400 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 400 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1949 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 87 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |