1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2005 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 29 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, 2005 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2005 Opel Signum.
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, 2005 Opel Signum, 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, 2005 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2005 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Bristol | Opel |
| Model | 603 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 60 L |
