1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2012 Buick Regal
To start off, 2012 Buick Regal 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 Buick Regal (270 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 102 kg more than 2012 Buick Regal.
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, 2012 Buick Regal, 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, 2012 Buick Regal (400 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 2012 Buick Regal has manual transmission. 2012 Buick Regal will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Bristol 603 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2012 Buick Regal | |
| Make | Bristol | Buick |
| Model | 603 | Regal |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1683 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4831 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2738 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 68 L |
