2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1959 Tatra T603
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1959 Tatra T603. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 378 kg more than 1959 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Tatra T603. (158 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1959 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | SL | T603 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
