1958 Bristol 406 vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1979 Datsun Laurel is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Bristol 406 (130 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Bristol 406 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 65 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. Let's talk about torque, 1958 Bristol 406 (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1958 Bristol 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 1958 Bristol 406 has manual transmission. 1958 Bristol 406 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Bristol 406 | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Bristol | Datsun |
| Model | 406 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.6 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
