2005 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1972 Tatra T603
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 33 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1972 Tatra T603. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1972 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 800 kg more than 1972 Tatra T603. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Tatra T603. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Tatra T603. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Tatra T603. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1972 Tatra T603 has manual transmission. 1972 Tatra T603 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 1972 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | R | T603 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2760 mm |
