1952 Bristol 401 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1952 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1952 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 50 kg more than 1952 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1952 Bristol 401 (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1952 Bristol 401 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Bristol 401 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2710 mm |
