1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 30 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 481 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.

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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 1978 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 2008 Volkswagen Polo
Make Bristol Volkswagen
Model 412 Polo
Year Released 1978 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5898 cc 1422 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 171 HP 0 HP
Torque 366 Nm 195 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 101.6 mm 79.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.9 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 19.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1209 kg
Vehicle Length 4950 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2910 mm 2470 mm