1953 Bristol 403 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 53 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1953 Bristol 403. (86 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1953 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Bristol 403 weights approximately 63 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2006 Volkswagen New 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. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Bristol 403. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1953 Bristol 403 has manual transmission. 1953 Bristol 403 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Bristol 403 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 403 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 55 L |
