2001 BMW M3 vs. 1976 Bristol 603
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 25 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, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1976 Bristol 603 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | M3 | 603 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 81 L |
