1955 Tatra T603 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 54 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1955 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1955 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 837 kg more than 1955 Tatra T603. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Tatra T603. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Tatra T603 | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2545 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
