1955 Bristol 403 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 49 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 111 kg more than 1955 Bristol 403. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1955 Bristol 403 has manual transmission. 1955 Bristol 403 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Bristol 403 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 403 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |
