1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 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 56 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 490 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Bristol 412 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 412 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 166 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2680 mm |