1978 Bristol 412 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 289 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 1978 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
Model | 412 | GTI |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5898 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1401 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2578 mm |