1976 Bristol 603 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 5 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 15 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Bristol 603 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 445 kg more than 1976 Bristol 603.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Bristol 603. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Bristol | GMC |
| Model | 603 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3300 mm |
