1954 BMW 340 vs. 1977 Bristol 412
To start off, 1977 Bristol 412 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 340 would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Bristol 412 (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1954 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 1954 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Bristol 412 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1954 BMW 340. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 BMW 340 | 1977 Bristol 412 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | 340 | 412 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2910 mm |
