1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 416 kg more than 2009 Volvo XC90.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Bristol | Volvo |
| Model | 603 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 72 L |
