1970 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1966 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1970 Chevrolet Vega is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 311 would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Chevrolet Vega (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 311. (50 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Chevrolet Vega should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 35 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Chevrolet Vega 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 1970 Chevrolet Vega. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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, 1970 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Chevrolet Vega | 1966 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Wartburg |
| Model | Vega | 311 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 43 L |
