1997 BMW M3 vs. 1973 Tatra T603
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1973 Tatra T603. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Tatra T603 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Tatra T603. (170 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1973 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | BMW | Tatra |
| Model | M3 | T603 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
