1976 Bristol 603 vs. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 1976 Bristol 603 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 47 more horse power than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220. (98 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Bristol 603 should accelerate faster than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1976 Bristol 603 (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220 has manual transmission. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 | 1956 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 603 | 220 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 64 L |
