1966 Mini MK I vs. 1955 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1966 Mini MK I is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 900 cc (3 cylinders), 1955 Wartburg 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Wartburg 312 (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1966 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Wartburg 312 should accelerate faster than 1966 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1966 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1955 Wartburg 312 (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mini MK I. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1955 Wartburg 312 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mini MK I | 1955 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mini | Wartburg |
| Model | MK I | 312 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2460 mm |
