1952 BMW 340 vs. 1958 Bristol 406
To start off, 1958 Bristol 406 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 BMW 340 would be higher. At 2,216 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Bristol 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Bristol 406 (130 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1952 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Bristol 406 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 340 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1958 Bristol 406.
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:
| 1952 BMW 340 | 1958 Bristol 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | 340 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2900 mm |
