1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1969 Dodge Challenger is newer by 8 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 6,286 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Dodge Challenger (200 HP) has 151 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 596 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 1969 Dodge Challenger 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 1969 Dodge Challenger. 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, 1969 Dodge Challenger (422 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Dodge Challenger | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Dodge | Wartburg |
| Model | Challenger | 311 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6286 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 43 L |
