1965 Bristol 409 vs. 1951 Ferrari 212
To start off, 1965 Bristol 409 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Ferrari 212. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Ferrari 212 would be higher. At 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 Bristol 409 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Bristol 409 (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1951 Ferrari 212. (169 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Bristol 409 should accelerate faster than 1951 Ferrari 212. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Bristol 409 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1951 Ferrari 212. 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. 1965 Bristol 409 has automatic transmission and 1951 Ferrari 212 has manual transmission. 1951 Ferrari 212 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1965 Bristol 409 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Bristol 409 | 1951 Ferrari 212 | |
| Make | Bristol | Ferrari |
| Model | 409 | 212 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5211 cc | 2562 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 58.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1000 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 159 L |
