1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 59 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 297 kg more than 1949 Bristol 401.
Because 1949 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 1949 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40, 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 S40 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1949 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1949 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1949 Bristol 401 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Bristol | Volvo |
Model | 401 | S40 |
Year Released | 1949 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 145 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 93.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1522 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2650 mm |