1950 Bristol 401 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 48 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 (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (91 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 5 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, 1998 Volkswagen 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
1950 Bristol 401 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 401 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1950 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 91 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 95.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2520 mm |