1951 BMW 340 vs. 1966 Bristol 409
To start off, 1966 Bristol 409 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 BMW 340 would be higher. At 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Bristol 409 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Bristol 409 (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1951 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Bristol 409 should accelerate faster than 1951 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Bristol 409 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1951 BMW 340. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 BMW 340 | 1966 Bristol 409 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | 340 | 409 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5211 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2910 mm |
