you might want to call some rescue societies, i'm sure they exist for both breeds. the people that run them will probably talk your ear off about every detail of the respective personalities.

also, try posting this on the "animal" section of www.craigslist.org.

NTO

Looks: Mulder face 9, body 9 Beautiful fur, soft
Scully face 7.5, body 7.5 -- marking aren't as nice, but has a real sweet nature.
Attitude: 8 -- 10 if they've been given tuna
Service: 8, would go up if they'd change their own cat box
Author: charlotte_sometimes_catlady_always

Here's some stuff I found with basic Web searching:
A good overall listing of pure breed cats:
http://www.geocities.com/abecedarius/Cats.html

American Bobtail
http://abeboptail.homestead.com/bebop1.html
The American Bobtail makes a wonderful pet for anyone, even those who would rather have a dog! . They are an intelligent and playful cat that can be trained to fetch and may come when called, if they want to! Great with children and other pets.

British Shorthair
http://www.geocities.com/grete_olden/character.htm
The british shorthaired is usually calm, gentle, affectionate and a little lazy. He loves to play, but wants to decide by him self when, and for how long. You will hear the cat purr a lot, but seldom hear him miaow. In spite of it's size, the british cat has a weak voice. And he only uses his voice when it is necessary and appropriate. (When there's no food left for instance....) He can sometimes be independent and reserved, but can also surprise you by acting as a little kitten - but only for a short time.

I used to have an 'Abby' - Abssynian. They are great cats and awesome pets. They come in several colors and are mostly short hairs although there is a long hair version. They're very smart and very social and friendly. Mine would come running to see me and make a trilling noise when ever I came home.
http://www.tdl.com/~pattic/abyfaq/

Good luck - you are making me think of getting a cat! I'm tired of being alone!

shyboy