1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 34 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 158 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 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 1978 Bristol 412 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159. 1978 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 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 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
Make | Bristol | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 412 | 159 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5898 cc | 3195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 322 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1848 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2710 mm |