2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1975 Tatra T603
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1975 Tatra T603. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1975 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Tatra T603 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1975 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 1975 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Tatra T603. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1975 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | A | T603 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
