2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Tatra T603
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 390 more horse power than 1974 Tatra T603. (104 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Tatra T603. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 315 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 529 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Tatra T603. (171 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Tatra T603. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | SL | T603 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
