1957 Tatra T603 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1957 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1957 Tatra T603.
Because 1957 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 1957 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Tatra T603. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Tatra T603 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2545 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
