1961 Bristol 406 vs. 2012 Renault Megane
To start off, 2012 Renault Megane is newer by 51 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, 2012 Renault Megane (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1961 Bristol 406. (92 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1961 Bristol 406.
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, 2012 Renault Megane, 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, 2012 Renault Megane (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Bristol 406. (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Bristol 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 406 | 2012 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Bristol | Renault |
| Model | 406 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.7 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 60 L |
