2004 Audi A8 vs. 1948 Bristol 401
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1948 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Bristol 401 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 1948 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8, 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, 2004 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1948 Bristol 401 | |
| Make | Audi | Bristol |
| Model | A8 | 401 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1948 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 77 L |
