1953 Porsche 356 vs. 1964 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1964 Wartburg 312 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1953 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Porsche 356 (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1964 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1964 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 151 kg more than 1953 Porsche 356.
Because 1953 Porsche 356 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 1953 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 Wartburg 312, 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:
| 1953 Porsche 356 | 1964 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Porsche | Wartburg |
| Model | 356 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 43 L |
