1962 Wartburg 311 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1962 Wartburg 311. (49 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1962 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1962 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Wartburg 311 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Wartburg | BMW |
| Model | 311 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 992 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 51 L |
