1961 Bristol 406 vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 1961 Bristol 406 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,216 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Bristol 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Bristol 406 (92 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Bristol 406 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Bristol 406 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 406 | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Bristol | Porsche |
| Model | 406 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 52 L |
