1955 Buick 40 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1961 Wartburg 312 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,277 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Buick 40 (234 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Buick 40 weights approximately 765 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Buick 40 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 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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. Let's talk about torque, 1955 Buick 40 (447 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1955 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Buick 40 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | Buick | Wartburg |
Model | 40 | 312 |
Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5277 cc | 900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 234 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 447 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 960 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2460 mm |