1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1968 Tatra T603
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,471 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Tatra T603 (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Tatra T603 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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, 1968 Tatra T603 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1968 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1968 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mazda | Tatra |
| Model | 323 | T603 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
