1976 Bristol 412 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Bristol 412. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Bristol 412 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 98 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1976 Bristol 412 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Bristol 412. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Bristol 412 (422 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1976 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 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:
| 1976 Bristol 412 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Bristol | Mazda |
| Model | 412 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6555 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2510 mm |
