1958 Bristol 406 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Bristol 406 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) has 38 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Bristol 406 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Bristol 406 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1958 Bristol 406 (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1958 Bristol 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Bristol 406 | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 406 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.7 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2480 mm |
