1951 Bristol 401 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 57 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, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 481 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (320 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1706 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 |
