2006 BMW M5 vs. 1976 Bristol 603
To start off, 2006 BMW M5 is newer by 30 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, 2006 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1976 Bristol 603. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Bristol 603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Bristol 603 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2006 BMW M5.
Because 2006 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Bristol 603. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW M5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Bristol 603. (333 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Bristol 603. 1976 Bristol 603 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW M5 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:
| 2006 BMW M5 | 1976 Bristol 603 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | M5 | 603 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4998 cc | 5210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 81 L |
