1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 23 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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (235 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 10 kg more than 1978 Bristol 412. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Bristol 412 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Vel Satis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Bristol 412 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Bristol | Renault |
| Model | 412 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2630 mm |
