1965 Bristol 409 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Bristol 409. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Bristol 409 would be higher. At 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 Bristol 409 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1965 Bristol 409. (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1965 Bristol 409. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 450 kg more than 1965 Bristol 409. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1965 Bristol 409. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 1965 Bristol 409 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1965 Bristol 409 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Bristol 409 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 409 | S |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5211 cc | 4264 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 88 L |
