1979 Bristol 412 vs. 1961 Ferrari 156
To start off, 1979 Bristol 412 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ferrari 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ferrari 156 would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Ferrari 156 (187 HP @ 9500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ferrari 156 should accelerate faster than 1979 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Bristol 412 weights approximately 1230 kg more than 1961 Ferrari 156.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1979 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1961 Ferrari 156 has manual transmission. 1961 Ferrari 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Bristol 412 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Bristol 412 | 1961 Ferrari 156 | |
| Make | Bristol | Ferrari |
| Model | 412 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 9500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2330 mm |
