1976 Bristol 603 vs. 1980 Subaru DL
To start off, 1980 Subaru DL is newer by 4 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. In terms of performance, 1976 Bristol 603 (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1980 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Bristol 603 should accelerate faster than 1980 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 965 kg more than 1980 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Bristol 603 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Bristol 603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Subaru DL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Bristol 603 (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Subaru DL. (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Subaru DL. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 1980 Subaru DL has manual transmission. 1980 Subaru DL 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 | 1980 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Bristol | Subaru |
| Model | 603 | DL |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2470 mm |
