1957 Lotus XI Le Mans vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1966 Wartburg 312 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans would be higher. At 1,096 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans (84 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans.
Because 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans 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 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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:
| 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Lotus | Wartburg |
| Model | XI Le Mans | 312 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1096 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 410 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 820 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2460 mm |
