1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2005 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 27 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) has 18 more horse power than 2005 Mercury Mariner. (153 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercury Mariner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 211 kg more than 2005 Mercury Mariner. 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner, 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 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercury Mariner. (206 Nm). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercury Mariner.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Bristol 412 | 2005 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercury |
| Model | 412 | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 2262 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 153 HP |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2630 mm |
