1976 Bristol 603 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1978 Mazda 626 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Bristol 603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Bristol 603 would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Bristol 603 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626.
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. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 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 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Bristol | Mazda |
| Model | 603 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2520 mm |
