1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 Chevrolet Cruze (161 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603.
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 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Bristol | Chevrolet |
| Model | 603 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 204 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 Length | 4920 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 59 L |
