1961 Bristol 406 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 43 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, 2004 Saturn ION (141 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1961 Bristol 406. (92 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1961 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Bristol 406 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION.
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, 2004 Saturn ION, 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Bristol 406. (174 Nm). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Bristol 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 406 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Bristol | Saturn |
| Model | 406 | ION |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 50 L |
