1949 Bristol 402 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V

To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 402. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 402 would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 402. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 402. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 775 kg more than 1949 Bristol 402. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1949 Bristol 402 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 1949 Bristol 402. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Bristol 402. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Bristol 402.

Compare all specifications:

1949 Bristol 402 1997 Mercedes-Benz V
Make Bristol Mercedes-Benz
Model 402 V
Year Released 1949 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1971 cc 2295 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 85 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 210 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1225 kg 2000 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1850 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 3010 mm