1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2006 Ford E-350
To start off, 2006 Ford E-350 is newer by 30 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 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1071 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 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, 2006 Ford E-350, 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, 2006 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2006 Ford E-350 | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 603 | E-350 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 5406 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2856 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 2120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 132 L |
