1958 BMW 600 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1961 Wartburg 312 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 600 would be higher. At 898 cc (3 cylinders), 1961 Wartburg 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Wartburg 312 (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1958 BMW 600. (20 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 312 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1958 BMW 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 BMW 600 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 1958 BMW 600. 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, 1961 Wartburg 312 (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 600. (38 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1961 Wartburg 312 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 600.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 600 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | BMW | Wartburg |
Model | 600 | 312 |
Year Released | 1958 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 583 cc | 898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 20 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 38 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2910 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1710 mm | 2460 mm |