1955 Bristol 403 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Bristol 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Bristol 403 would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 825 kg more than 1955 Bristol 403. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1955 Bristol 403 has manual transmission. 1955 Bristol 403 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Bristol 403 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 403 | SL |
Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5956 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 375 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 580 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2520 mm |