2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1974 Tatra T603
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1974 Tatra T603. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 425 kg more than 1974 Tatra T603. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Tatra T603. (171 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Tatra T603. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1974 Tatra T603 has manual transmission. 1974 Tatra T603 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1974 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | S | T603 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2760 mm |
