1950 Bristol 401 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 46 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1950 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1950 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 1950 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
1950 Bristol 401 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Bristol | Volvo |
Model | 401 | 850 |
Year Released | 1950 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2670 mm |