1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2009 Jaguar XJ
To start off, 2009 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ (391 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2009 Jaguar XJ.
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, 2009 Jaguar XJ, 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, 2009 Jaguar XJ (541 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2009 Jaguar XJ | |
| Make | Bristol | Jaguar |
| Model | 603 | XJ |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 4194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 391 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 541 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 85 L |
