1953 Bristol 403 vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1956 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Bristol 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Bristol 403 would be higher. At 1,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1953 Bristol 403 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Bristol 403 (86 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Bristol 403 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Bristol 403 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 Bristol 403 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 1953 Bristol 403. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Bristol 403 | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 403 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 42 L |
