1997 Proton 400 vs. 1972 Tatra T603
To start off, 1997 Proton 400 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Tatra T603 (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Tatra T603 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1997 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Proton 400, 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, 1972 Tatra T603 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Tatra T603 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 400 | 1972 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Proton | Tatra |
| Model | 400 | T603 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2760 mm |
