1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1960 Bristol 406
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 2,215 cc (6 cylinders), 1960 Bristol 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (143 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1960 Bristol 406. (91 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1960 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Bristol 406 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1960 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 1960 Bristol 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1960 Bristol 406 (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1960 Bristol 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1960 Bristol 406 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Bristol |
| Model | 156 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 68.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 99.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 81 L |
