1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1974 Tatra T603
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Tatra T603 (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Tatra T603 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1974 Tatra T603 (171 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1974 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1974 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | A | T603 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2760 mm |
