1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (420 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 759 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 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Bristol 412. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (551 Nm) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Bristol 412. (366 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Bristol 412.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Bristol 412 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 412 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2449 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3010 mm |
