2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1973 Tatra T603
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Tatra T603. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Tatra T603 would be higher. At 2,470 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Tatra T603 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Tatra T603 (104 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Tatra T603 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Tatra T603. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Tatra T603. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1973 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tatra |
| Model | A | T603 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 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 |
