1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 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 23 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Bristol 412 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Bristol | Mazda |
| Model | 412 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2650 mm |
