1972 Tatra T603 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 Tatra T603. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Tatra T603 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1972 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 1972 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1972 Tatra T603 has manual transmission. 1972 Tatra T603 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Tatra T603 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Tatra | Volkswagen |
| Model | T603 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
