1978 Bristol 412 vs. 1996 Mercury Villager
To start off, 1996 Mercury Villager is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Bristol 412. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Bristol 412 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 22 more horse power than 1996 Mercury Villager. (149 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercury Villager. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Villager weights approximately 110 kg more than 1978 Bristol 412.
Because 1978 Bristol 412 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Bristol 412. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Villager, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1996 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercury |
| Model | 412 | Villager |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2860 mm |
