1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 625 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 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Bristol 412. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Bristol 412. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 412 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3001 mm |
