1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2005 Renault Megane

To start off, 2005 Renault Megane 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 394 kg more than 2005 Renault Megane. 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 Renault Megane, 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Megane. (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Megane. 1978 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 2005 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2005 Renault Megane 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 2005 Renault Megane
Make Bristol Renault
Model 412 Megane
Year Released 1978 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5898 cc 1870 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 171 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 366 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 18.3:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1296 kg
Wheelbase Size 2910 mm 2750 mm