1976 Bristol 603 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, 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 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (210 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 603 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2520 mm |
