1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 58 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401.
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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 401 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2440 mm |
