1949 Bristol 450 vs. 1980 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1980 Lancia Beta is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 450 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Bristol 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Bristol 450 (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Beta. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Bristol 450 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lancia Beta weights approximately 306 kg more than 1949 Bristol 450.
Because 1949 Bristol 450 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 1949 Bristol 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Beta, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Bristol 450 | 1980 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Bristol | Lancia |
| Model | 450 | Beta |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |
