1951 Bristol 401 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 55 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 1,970 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 113 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, 2006 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, 1951 Bristol 401 (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1951 Bristol 401 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1951 Bristol 401 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 401 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1951 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 75.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2520 mm |