1958 Tatra T603 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1958 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1958 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Tatra T603 weights approximately 239 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1958 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 1958 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen 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 Beetle (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Tatra T603. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Tatra T603 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2545 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2630 mm |
