1959 Citroen DS vs. 1975 Tatra T603
To start off, 1975 Tatra T603 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen DS would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Tatra T603 (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1959 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Tatra T603 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1959 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Citroen DS, 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, 1975 Tatra T603 (170 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen DS. (137 Nm). This means 1975 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 1975 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Citroen | Tatra |
| Model | DS | T603 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2760 mm |
