1963 Bristol 408 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Bristol 408. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Bristol 408 would be higher. At 5,129 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Bristol 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1963 Bristol 408. (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1963 Bristol 408. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Bristol 408 weights approximately 440 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1963 Bristol 408. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 1963 Bristol 408 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1963 Bristol 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Bristol 408 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 408 | R |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5129 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
