1979 Bristol 412 vs. 1974 Citroen GS
To start off, 1979 Bristol 412 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Citroen GS would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Bristol 412 (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Bristol 412 should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Bristol 412 weights approximately 816 kg more than 1974 Citroen GS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Bristol 412. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Citroen GS, 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. 1979 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1974 Citroen GS has manual transmission. 1974 Citroen GS 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 | 1974 Citroen GS | |
| Make | Bristol | Citroen |
| Model | 412 | GS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 1220 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 65.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 874 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2560 mm |
