1979 Bristol 412 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Bristol 412. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Bristol 412 would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1979 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Bristol 412.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Bristol 412. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Bristol 412.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Bristol 412 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 412 | SL |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2570 mm |
