1961 Bristol 406 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 48 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 569 more horse power than 1961 Bristol 406. (92 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1961 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 105 kg more than 1961 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 826 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Bristol 406. (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Bristol 406. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1961 Bristol 406 has manual transmission. 1961 Bristol 406 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Bristol 406 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 406 | SL |
Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2216 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 92 HP | 661 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 80 L |