1951 Bristol 401 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 106 kg more than 1951 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 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 1951 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Bristol 401 | 2005 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2850 mm |
