1954 BMW 502 vs. 1980 Bristol 412
To start off, 1980 Bristol 412 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 502 would be higher. At 5,896 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Bristol 412 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1954 BMW 502.
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. 1980 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1954 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1954 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Bristol 412 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 BMW 502 | 1980 Bristol 412 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | 502 | 412 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2578 cc | 5896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2910 mm |
