1961 Wartburg 311 vs. 2011 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2011 Mazda BT-50 is newer by 50 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 2,953 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda BT-50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda BT-50 (154 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda BT-50 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Because 2011 Mazda BT-50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Wartburg 311. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda BT-50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mazda BT-50 (380 Nm @ 180 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda BT-50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Wartburg 311 | 2011 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | Wartburg | Mazda |
| Model | 311 | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 154 HP |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 180 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 96.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3010 mm |
