1976 Bristol 603 vs. 1987 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1987 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 11 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, 1987 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 110 kg more than 1976 Bristol 603. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1987 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1987 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1987 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 1987 Chevrolet Astro has manual transmission. 1987 Chevrolet Astro 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 | 1987 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 603 | Astro |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2830 mm |
