1948 Bristol 401 vs. 1962 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1962 Lotus Seven is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 401 would be higher. At 1,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Bristol 401 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Bristol 401 (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Bristol 401 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Bristol 401 weights approximately 795 kg more than 1962 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Bristol 401 | 1962 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Bristol | Lotus |
| Model | 401 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 29 L |
