1950 Bristol 401 vs. 1979 Volvo 343

To start off, 1979 Volvo 343 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1950 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1950 Bristol 401 (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1950 Bristol 401 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Bristol 401 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1979 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1950 Bristol 401 (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1950 Bristol 401 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 343. 1979 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1950 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1950 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1950 Bristol 401 1979 Volvo 343
Make Bristol Volvo
Model 401 343
Year Released 1950 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1971 cc 1397 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 72 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 108 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1225 kg 990 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1400 mm


 

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