1979 Bristol 412 vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 30 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1979 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1979 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1 kg more than 1979 Bristol 412. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Bristol 412. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Bristol 412. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Bristol 412.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Bristol 412 | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Bristol | Dodge |
| Model | 412 | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5898 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2770 mm |
