1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 90 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 603 | S |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 88 L |
