1955 Bristol 403 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 51 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1955 Bristol 403. (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1955 Bristol 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 700 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Bristol 403. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Bristol 403. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Bristol 403 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 403 | S |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3170 mm |
