1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz V 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 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Bristol 603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Bristol 603 (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Bristol 603 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 215 kg more than 1976 Bristol 603.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz V. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz V. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz V 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 603 | V |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3010 mm |
