1989 Saab 9000 vs. 1961 Tatra T603
To start off, 1989 Saab 9000 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,545 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1961 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1961 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Tatra T603 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000.
Because 1961 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 1961 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000, 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, 1989 Saab 9000 (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Tatra T603. (159 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Saab 9000 | 1961 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Saab | Tatra |
| Model | 9000 | T603 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
