1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2008 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2008 Cadillac STS is newer by 32 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, 2008 Cadillac STS (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac STS weights approximately 27 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2008 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | Bristol | Cadillac |
| Model | 603 | STS |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 66 L |
