1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (415 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 581 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.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Bristol 603. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Bristol | Volkswagen |
| Model | 603 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 90 L |
