1951 Bristol 401 vs. 2008 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen T5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1119 kg more than 1951 Bristol 401.
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 T5, 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 T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen T5 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 T5 | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 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 | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3010 mm |
