1950 Bristol 401 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 59 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 1082 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1950 Bristol 401 (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Polo. (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1950 Bristol 401 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Bristol 401 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2470 mm |
