1965 Bristol 409 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 43 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1965 Bristol 409. (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1965 Bristol 409. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 695 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Bristol 409. (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Bristol 409.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Bristol 409 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 409 | R |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5211 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 463 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 80 L |
