2008 BMW 325 vs. 1978 Bristol 412
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 30 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, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1978 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Bristol 412 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 BMW 325.
Because 2008 BMW 325 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, 2008 BMW 325 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 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 1978 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 325 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:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 1978 Bristol 412 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | 325 | 412 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2910 mm |
