1954 Studebaker Commander vs. 1966 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1966 Wartburg 311 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Studebaker Commander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Studebaker Commander would be higher. At 3,673 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Studebaker Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Studebaker Commander (140 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 311. (50 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Studebaker Commander should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Studebaker Commander weights approximately 450 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Studebaker Commander 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 1954 Studebaker Commander. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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:
| 1954 Studebaker Commander | 1966 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Studebaker | Wartburg |
| Model | Commander | 311 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3673 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2460 mm |
