1970 Tatra T603 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Tatra T603 (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Tatra T603 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen 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, 1970 Tatra T603 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Tatra T603 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
