1950 Bristol 401 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1950 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Bristol 401 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1950 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 1950 Bristol 401. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Bristol 401 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 401 | A |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2600 mm |
