1976 Bristol 603 vs. 1998 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1998 Ford Taurus is newer by 22 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, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603.
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, 1998 Ford Taurus, 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 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 1998 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 603 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
