1978 Bristol 412 vs. 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 1978 Bristol 412 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 119 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 830 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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. 1978 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Bristol Volkswagen
Model 412 Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1978 1970
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 5898 cc 1493 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 171 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 860 kg
Vehicle Length 4950 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2910 mm 2430 mm