1977 Bristol 412 vs. 2002 Porsche 996
To start off, 2002 Porsche 996 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Bristol 412. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Bristol 412 would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1977 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1977 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Bristol 412 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2002 Porsche 996.
Because 2002 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Bristol 412. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Porsche 996 (371 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Bristol 412. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Bristol 412. 1977 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 2002 Porsche 996 has manual transmission. 2002 Porsche 996 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Bristol 412 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Bristol 412 | 2002 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Bristol | Porsche |
| Model | 412 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2360 mm |
