1997 Audi A8 vs. 1959 Bristol 406
To start off, 1997 Audi A8 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1959 Bristol 406. (91 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1959 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 359 kg more than 1959 Bristol 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Bristol 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Bristol 406. (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Bristol 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 1959 Bristol 406 | |
| Make | Audi | Bristol |
| Model | A8 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 68.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 99.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 81 L |
