2005 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Bristol 412
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 27 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 5,998 cc, 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 790 kg more than 2005 Audi A8.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Bristol 412. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 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, 2005 Audi A8 (560 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Bristol 412. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Bristol 412.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1978 Bristol 412 | |
| Make | Audi | Bristol |
| Model | A8 | 412 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5898 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2910 mm |
