1961 Tatra T603 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1961 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 67 kg more than 1961 Tatra T603. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Tatra T603. (159 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Tatra T603 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2545 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2712 mm |
