1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1957 Tatra T603
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1957 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1957 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Tatra T603 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Tatra T603. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1957 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | 280 | T603 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
