1958 Bristol 406 vs. 1978 Lotus 79
To start off, 1978 Lotus 79 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 2,992 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Lotus 79 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lotus 79 (484 HP @ 11000 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1958 Bristol 406. (130 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lotus 79 should accelerate faster than 1958 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Bristol 406 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1978 Lotus 79.
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:
| 1958 Bristol 406 | 1978 Lotus 79 | |
| Make | Bristol | Lotus |
| Model | 406 | 79 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 11000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 590 kg |
