1958 Bristol 405 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Bristol 405. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Bristol 405 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1958 Bristol 405. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1958 Bristol 405. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1588 kg more than 1958 Bristol 405. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Bristol 405 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 1958 Bristol 405. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Bristol 405. (152 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Bristol 405.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Bristol 405 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 405 | A |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 60 L |
