1958 Bristol 406 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 54 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1958 Bristol 406. (130 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1958 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 280 kg more than 1958 Bristol 406. 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Bristol 406. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Bristol 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Bristol 406 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 406 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
