1958 Abarth 500 vs. 1962 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1962 Wartburg 311 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 900 cc (3 cylinders), 1962 Wartburg 311 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Wartburg 311 (36 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Wartburg 311 should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Wartburg 311 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1958 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1962 Wartburg 311 (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Wartburg 311 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 500 | 1962 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Abarth | Wartburg |
| Model | 500 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 36 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 43 L |
