1949 Bristol 402 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 402. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 402 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Bristol 402 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 402. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 402. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 138 kg more than 1949 Bristol 402. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Bristol 402 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 402. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 402. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 402.
Compare all specifications:
1949 Bristol 402 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 402 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1949 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 235 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1363 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 55 L |