1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 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 BMW X5 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 655 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.
Because 2012 BMW X5 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 BMW X5 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 BMW X5 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Bristol | BMW |
| Model | 603 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 85 L |
