1959 Tatra T603 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 52 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1959 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1959 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1360 kg more than 1959 Tatra T603. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Tatra T603. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Tatra T603 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Tatra | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | T603 | A |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2545 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
