1996 Audi A3 vs. 1976 Bristol 603
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 20 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, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
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, 1996 Audi A3, 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 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1976 Bristol 603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 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:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1976 Bristol 603 | |
| Make | Audi | Bristol |
| Model | A3 | 603 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 5210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 81 L |
