1962 Bristol 407 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Bristol 407. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Bristol 407 would be higher. At 5,129 cc (8 cylinders), 1962 Bristol 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Bristol 407 (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Bristol 407 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Bristol 407 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Bristol 407. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1962 Bristol 407 (463 Nm) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 1962 Bristol 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Bristol 407 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 407 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5129 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 55 L |
