2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1964 Bristol 408
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Bristol 408. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Bristol 408 would be higher. At 5,130 cc (8 cylinders), 1964 Bristol 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Bristol 408 (216 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Bristol 408 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Bristol 408 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Bristol 408 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 1964 Bristol 408. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1964 Bristol 408 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1964 Bristol 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. 1964 Bristol 408 has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1964 Bristol 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1964 Bristol 408 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Bristol |
| Model | 156 | 408 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 463 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 81 L |
