1978 Bristol 412 vs. 1956 Maserati 250
To start off, 1978 Bristol 412 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Maserati 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Maserati 250 would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Maserati 250 (267 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Maserati 250 should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1956 Maserati 250.
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. 1978 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1956 Maserati 250 has manual transmission. 1956 Maserati 250 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Bristol 412 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Bristol 412 | 1956 Maserati 250 | |
| Make | Bristol | Maserati |
| Model | 412 | 250 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 670 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2290 mm |
