1977 Bristol 412 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 32 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1977 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1977 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1140 kg more than 1977 Bristol 412. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1977 Bristol 412 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1977 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 1977 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 412 | C |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2770 mm |
