2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1958 Bristol 406
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1958 Bristol 406. (130 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1958 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1958 Bristol 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 Bristol 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Bristol 406. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Bristol 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1958 Bristol 406 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Bristol |
| Model | 156 | 406 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 68.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 99.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
