2004 BMW M3 vs. 1956 Bristol 405
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Bristol 405. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Bristol 405 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1956 Bristol 405. (101 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1956 Bristol 405. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1956 Bristol 405. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Bristol 405. (152 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Bristol 405.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1956 Bristol 405 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | M3 | 405 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
