1948 Bristol 401 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 61 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 519 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 725 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 856 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Bristol 401. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1948 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1948 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1948 Bristol 401 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 401 | SL |
Year Released | 1948 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1969 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 80 L |