1959 Tatra T603 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1959 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Tatra T603 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1959 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 1959 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Tatra T603. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Tatra T603 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2545 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
