1976 Bristol 412 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 412. (208 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 412 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
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, 2004 Volvo S40, 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 412 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Bristol | Volvo |
| Model | 412 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6555 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2720 mm |
