1950 Bristol 401 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 38 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (157 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Bristol 401 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1950 Bristol 401. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1988 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Bristol 401 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2490 mm |
