1958 Bristol 406 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 41 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1958 Bristol 406. (130 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1958 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1958 Bristol 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Bristol 406 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 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Bristol 406. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Bristol 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Bristol 406 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Bristol | Volvo |
| Model | 406 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
