1965 Tatra T603 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1965 Tatra T603. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1965 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Tatra T603 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1965 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 1965 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 (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Tatra T603. (171 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Tatra T603. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1965 Tatra T603 has manual transmission. 1965 Tatra T603 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Tatra T603 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
