1961 Bristol 406 vs. 1997 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 2,216 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Bristol 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1961 Bristol 406. (92 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Bristol 406 weights approximately 201 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Because 1961 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 1961 Bristol 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1961 Bristol 406 (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1961 Bristol 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 406 | 1997 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Bristol | Mazda |
| Model | 406 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 65 L |
