2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1977 Bristol 412
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Bristol 412. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Bristol 412 would be higher. At 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Bristol 412 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1977 Bristol 412. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1977 Bristol 412. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Bristol 412 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 1977 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 1977 Bristol 412. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 1977 Bristol 412 (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Bristol 412 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. 1977 Bristol 412 has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Bristol 412 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1977 Bristol 412 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Bristol |
| Model | 159 | 412 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 5898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2910 mm |
