1996 BMW M3 vs. 1949 Bristol 450
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 47 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 450. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 858 kg more than 1949 Bristol 450. 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:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1949 Bristol 450 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | M3 | 450 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
