1951 Bristol 401 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 58 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 145 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Bristol 401 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2580 mm |
