1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 36 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, 2012 Audi R8 (560 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 415 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2012 Audi R8.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Bristol 603. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (539 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Bristol | Audi |
| Model | 603 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1267 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 75 L |
