1999 Audi S8 vs. 1978 Bristol 412
To start off, 1999 Audi S8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Bristol 412. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Bristol 412 would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S8 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S8 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1978 Bristol 412. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Bristol 412. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 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, 1978 Bristol 412 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S8. (331 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S8. 1978 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi S8 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi S8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Bristol 412 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi S8 | 1978 Bristol 412 | |
| Make | Audi | Bristol |
| Model | S8 | 412 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2910 mm |
