1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1955 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Wartburg 311 (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Wartburg 311 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Wartburg 311 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1955 Wartburg 311 (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (78 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1955 Wartburg 311 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1955 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Wartburg |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | 311 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 78 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2460 mm |
