1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 240 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 SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 467 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 603 | SL |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 80 L |
