1958 BMW 502 vs. 1976 Bristol 412
To start off, 1976 Bristol 412 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 502 would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Bristol 412 (208 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1958 BMW 502. (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 412 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1958 BMW 502. 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. 1976 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1958 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1958 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Bristol 412 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 502 | 1976 Bristol 412 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | 502 | 412 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2910 mm |
