Czechoslovakia vs Czechoslovakia — 1964 vs 1956
| 603 | 603 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 105 hp | 95 hp |
| Torque | 127 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 2,472 cc | 2,545 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 16.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 99 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 20.0 sec | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,710 mm | 2,740 mm |
| Length | 5,065 mm | 5,065 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 20,422 |
| Value (Excellent) | $95,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1964 Tatra 603 brings more power to the table, and the 1956 Tatra 603 answers with its own distinct appeal. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Tatra 603. The 1964 and 1956 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1964 Tatra 603 producing 105 hp and the 1956 Tatra 603 delivering 95 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Tatra 603 uses a V8 Air-Cooled OHV 16V displacing 2,472 cc, while the Tatra 603 relies on a V8 with 2,545 cc. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.