1955 Abarth 209 vs. 1967 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1967 Wartburg 312 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 209. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 209 would be higher. At 1,087 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Abarth 209 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Abarth 209 (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1967 Wartburg 312. (45 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Abarth 209 should accelerate faster than 1967 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1967 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 304 kg more than 1955 Abarth 209.
Because 1955 Abarth 209 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 1955 Abarth 209. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1967 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:
| 1955 Abarth 209 | 1967 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Abarth | Wartburg |
| Model | 209 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1967 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1087 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 130 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 914 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 43 L |
