1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 (158 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 970 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | 300 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3160 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 40 L |
