1955 Bristol 403 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 56 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1082 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Bristol 403 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 403 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2720 mm |
