1955 Jensen 541 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 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Jensen 541 (111 HP @ 3700 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Jensen 541 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Jensen 541 weights approximately 260 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 Jensen 541 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 Jensen 541. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Jensen 541 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Jensen | Wartburg |
| Model | 541 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 40 L |
