1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2009 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 33 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (263 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Cadillac CTS.
Because 2009 Cadillac CTS 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (343 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2009 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Bristol | Cadillac |
| Model | 603 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 3599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 68 L |
