1976 Bristol 412 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 36 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 70 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 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 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 412 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 412 | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6555 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2525 mm |
