1980 Bristol 412 vs. 1995 Caterham 21
To start off, 1995 Caterham 21 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Bristol 412. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Bristol 412 would be higher. At 5,896 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Bristol 412 weights approximately 1042 kg more than 1995 Caterham 21.
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. 1980 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1995 Caterham 21 has manual transmission. 1995 Caterham 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Bristol 412 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Bristol 412 | 1995 Caterham 21 | |
| Make | Bristol | Caterham |
| Model | 412 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5896 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 138 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 648 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2260 mm |
