1950 Bristol 401 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 53 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 175 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, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
1950 Bristol 401 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 401 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1950 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 92.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |