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BRISTOL 603 Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Generations: 2
First production year: 1976
Engines: Gasoline
Body style: Coupé (two-door)
BRISTOL 603 S3 Brigand photo gallery

Bristol tried to get into the GT segment with a two-door coupe that offered more power than its siblings, thanks to an improved turbocharged V8.

Based on the same platform used by its Britannia sibling, the Brigand tried to be more attractive and provide surprising performance. But, unfortunately, the British automaker didn't make too many changes to the car in the following 12 years of production.

While it still relied on the same chassis developed by BMW in the '30s for the 327, the Brigand's exterior revealed a fresh look. Its front fascia sported a pair of Volkswagen Scirocco II headlights and a black plastic grille between them. In addition, the plastic bumper received a chromed trim interrupted only by the amber blinkers. From its profile, the two-door coupe was slightly longer than a Jaguar XJS, which was 603's, main competitor. Unlike the Britannia, the Brigand featured a bulge on the hood, which needed to accommodate a turbocharger.

Inside, the WWII-aircraft-inspired instrument panel was filled with dials and gauges. Although all of them were useful, sometimes customers complained that it was too much. But they didn't complain about the bucket seats at the front. In addition, the 114" (2.9-meter) long wheelbase allowed Bristol to offer enough legroom for the two passengers seated in the back. As expected from this exclusive British brand, the materials' quality was top-notch, using leather, wood, and polished metallic parts.

Under the hood, Bristol installed a 5.9-liter V8 carried from Chrysler. This was built according to the British automaker's requirements and was helped by a turbocharger. Thus, finally, the Brigand was a very fast GT. But, unfortunately, the automaker couldn't sell them in large numbers.

full description and technical specifications
BRISTOL Type 603 photo gallery

Bristol was one of the last British car-makers that evolved from aircraft manufacturers during WWII and it survived until it entered in liquidation in 2011.

In the mid-'70s, the British industry still looked strong and Bristol started the engines of the 603 coupe model. In 1976, the City of Bristol celebrated 603 years of recognition. That is where the name came from. It was an odd inspiration name, but it worked well for the latest coupe built by Bristol under new management, which started in 1973 when Tony Crook bought out Sir George White’s shares in the company.

The V8-powered coupe had a four rounded headlights design and a simple grille with no fancy elements. Just straight, horizontal, black plastic lines. The car was narrower than a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow but longer than the Jaguar XJ-S coupe. It featured a long wheelbase to ensure a comfortable ride over long distances.

Inside, there was room for four adults. Unlike many other four-seat vehicles from the era, the rear occupants could sit well, with enough leg and headroom. The leather-covered seats were handcrafted and stitched. The instrument panel was flat and the big, round dials were mounted on a wood panel.

The car was powered by a 5.2-liter V8 engine which was replaced later on the 603S version with a Chrysler sourced 5.9-liter V8. The suspension and gearbox were the same as in the much known Jaguar XJ-S.

full description and technical specifications
gasoline engines:

BRISTOL Type 603 5.9 V8