1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 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 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 306 kg more than 2006 Volvo V50.
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 Volvo V50, 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo V50. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Bristol | Volvo |
| Model | 603 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 240 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 | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 62 L |
