1950 Bristol 401 vs. 1978 Ferrari 312
To start off, 1978 Ferrari 312 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1978 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ferrari 312 (503 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 431 more horse power than 1950 Bristol 401. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1950 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Bristol 401 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1978 Ferrari 312.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Bristol 401 | 1978 Ferrari 312 | |
| Make | Bristol | Ferrari |
| Model | 401 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 12200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2140 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1020 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
