1948 Bristol 450 vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1963 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 450 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Bristol 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Bristol 450 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Bristol 450 should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Bristol 450 weights approximately 136 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. 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 450 | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Bristol | Lotus |
| Model | 450 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 72.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
