1961 Wartburg 311 vs. 2008 BMW 645
To start off, 2008 BMW 645 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 645 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 645 (328 HP) has 279 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 645 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 645 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 645 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 2008 BMW 645. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 311, 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, 2008 BMW 645 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 645 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Wartburg 311 | 2008 BMW 645 | |
| Make | Wartburg | BMW |
| Model | 311 | 645 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 328 HP |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 70 L |
