1955 Ford Zephyr vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1961 Wartburg 311 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,260 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Zephyr (57 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 175 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 1955 Ford Zephyr 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 Ford Zephyr. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1955 Ford Zephyr (151 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford Zephyr | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Ford | Wartburg |
| Model | Zephyr | 311 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 43 L |
