1977 Alpine A 442 vs. 1965 Bristol 408
To start off, 1977 Alpine A 442 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Bristol 408. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Bristol 408 would be higher. At 5,130 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 Bristol 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 1965 Bristol 408. (215 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1965 Bristol 408. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Bristol 408 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1977 Alpine A 442.
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 408 has automatic transmission and 1977 Alpine A 442 has manual transmission. 1977 Alpine A 442 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1965 Bristol 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Alpine A 442 | 1965 Bristol 408 | |
| Make | Alpine | Bristol |
| Model | A 442 | 408 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1585 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2910 mm |
