1971 Tatra T603 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 7 kg more than 1971 Tatra T603.
Because 1971 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 1971 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Tatra T603. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Tatra T603 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1477 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
