1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
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, 2003 Volvo S40, 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Bristol 603 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Bristol | Volvo |
Model | 603 | S40 |
Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 321 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 80 L |