2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1972 Tatra T603
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 30 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1972 Tatra T603. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Tatra T603 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Tatra T603. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1972 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | SLK | T603 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
