1946 Fiat 500 vs. 1960 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1960 Wartburg 311 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1946 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1946 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 992 cc (3 cylinders), 1960 Wartburg 311 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Wartburg 311 (49 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1946 Fiat 500. (14 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1960 Wartburg 311 should accelerate faster than 1946 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Wartburg 311 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1946 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1946 Fiat 500 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 1946 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 Wartburg 311, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1946 Fiat 500 | 1960 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Fiat | Wartburg |
| Model | 500 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1946 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 49 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2460 mm |
