1978 Bristol 412 vs. 1961 Porsche 356
To start off, 1978 Bristol 412 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Bristol 412 (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1961 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 1961 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 835 kg more than 1961 Porsche 356. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Bristol 412 | 1961 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Bristol | Porsche |
| Model | 412 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2130 mm |
