The difference is subtle at best. A bench lathe is a complete lathe that is
designed to sit atop a bench or other supporting stand of some sort. An
engine lathe has its own stand in that it is bolted to a heavy console made
esp. for it. Generally, engine lathes are of heavier construction than
bench lathes. It is unusual to find a bench lathe larger than say, 12 x 36
(36 is the length of the bed). IMO, a quality bench lathe is likely to be
less rigid than an engine lathe of the same size; and a thousnd or so $ less
in price.

Bob Swinney
"Kelly Jones" wrote in message
...
What's the difference between an engine lathe and a bench lathe?
Thanks