1976 Bristol 603 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1976 Bristol 603 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Bristol 603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Bristol 603 (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Bristol 603 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 1355 kg more than 1968 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. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Bristol 603 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Bristol | Lotus |
| Model | 603 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 45 L |
