1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 28 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 175 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 603 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 701 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 80 L |
