1952 Bristol 401 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 57 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1952 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1952 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1082 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, 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 (148 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 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 1952 Bristol 401. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Bristol 401 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 401 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2580 mm |
