1958 Bristol 406 vs. 1957 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1958 Bristol 406 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,216 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Bristol 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Bristol 406 (91 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Bristol 406 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Bristol 406 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Bristol 406 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 1958 Bristol 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 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:
| 1958 Bristol 406 | 1957 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 406 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1560 mm |
