1958 Bristol 406 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 54 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1958 Bristol 406. (130 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1958 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 785 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.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Bristol 406. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Bristol 406. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Bristol 406 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 406 | SL |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
