1949 Bristol 401 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 60 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1220 kg more than 1949 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1949 Bristol 401. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 386 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 401. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1949 Bristol 401 has manual transmission. 1949 Bristol 401 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 401 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 401 | GL |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3080 mm |
