1960 Abarth 1600 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1961 Wartburg 312 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 Abarth 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Abarth 1600 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1960 Abarth 1600.
Because 1960 Abarth 1600 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 1960 Abarth 1600. 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:
| 1960 Abarth 1600 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Abarth | Wartburg |
| Model | 1600 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 40 L |
