1961 Bristol 406 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 2,216 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Bristol 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1961 Bristol 406. (92 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Bristol 406.
Because 1961 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 1961 Bristol 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3, 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Bristol 406. (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Bristol 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 406 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Bristol | Mazda |
| Model | 406 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 55 L |
