1955 Tatra T603 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Tatra T603 (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Tatra T603 weights approximately 222 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Tatra T603 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 1955 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Tatra T603. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Tatra T603 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2545 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
