1973 Bristol 411 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Bristol 411. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Bristol 411 would be higher. At 6,556 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Bristol 411 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Bristol 411 (264 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Bristol 411 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Bristol 411 weights approximately 715 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Bristol 411 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 1973 Bristol 411. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1973 Bristol 411 (455 Nm) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1973 Bristol 411 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1973 Bristol 411 has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Bristol 411 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Bristol 411 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Bristol | Lotus |
| Model | 411 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6556 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 110.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2260 mm |
