1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 282 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 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 Ford Explorer, 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 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Bristol 603 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Bristol | Ford |
Model | 603 | Explorer |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5210 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 333 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 2067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5006 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2004 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1788 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 70 L |