1950 Bristol 401 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 55 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 75 kg more than 1950 Bristol 401. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Bristol 401. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 401 | A |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
