1955 Bristol 403 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Bristol 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Bristol 403 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Bristol 403 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Bristol 403 (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Bristol 403 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Bristol 403 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Bristol 403. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1955 Bristol 403 (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 Bristol 403 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Bristol 403 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 403 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1955 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |