2003 BMW M3 vs. 1948 Bristol 450
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 450 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 450. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 655 kg more than 1948 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:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1948 Bristol 450 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | M3 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1948 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
