1976 Bristol 603 vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus 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 Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 448 kg more than 2012 Ford Focus.
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 Focus, 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, 1976 Bristol 603 (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Focus. (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Bristol 603 | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Bristol | Ford |
| Model | 603 | Focus |
| 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 | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1337 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 47 L |
