1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2007 Kia Optima
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 31 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, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603.
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, 2007 Kia Optima, 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Optima. (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Optima. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 2007 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2007 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Bristol 603 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2007 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Bristol | Kia |
| Model | 603 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 62 L |
