1961 Bristol 407 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Bristol 407. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Bristol 407 would be higher. At 5,130 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Bristol 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Bristol 407 (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Bristol 407 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Bristol 407 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Bristol 407 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 1961 Bristol 407. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Bristol 407 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1961 Bristol 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 407 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 407 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5130 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 55 L |
