1952 Bristol 401 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 52 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1952 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1952 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 200 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, 2004 Volvo S40, 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Bristol 401. 2004 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1952 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1952 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1952 Bristol 401 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Bristol | Volvo |
Model | 401 | S40 |
Year Released | 1952 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2720 mm |