1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Bristol 603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 765 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Bristol | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 603 | GL |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 100 L |
