1949 Hudson Commodore vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1961 Wartburg 311 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Hudson Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Hudson Commodore would be higher. At 4,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Hudson Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Hudson Commodore (128 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Hudson Commodore should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Hudson Commodore weights approximately 686 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Hudson Commodore 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 1949 Hudson Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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:
| 1949 Hudson Commodore | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Hudson | Wartburg |
| Model | Commodore | 311 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4166 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 114.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3160 mm | 2460 mm |
