2002 Audi A8 vs. 1979 Bristol 412
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 23 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, 2002 Audi A8 (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Bristol 412 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2002 Audi A8.
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, 2002 Audi A8, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Bristol 412 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1979 Bristol 412 | |
| Make | Audi | Bristol |
| Model | A8 | 412 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 5898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2910 mm |
