1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1972 Fiat 124 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (60 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124.
Because 1972 Fiat 124 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 312, 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, 1972 Fiat 124 (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 124 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | Fiat | Wartburg |
Model | 124 | 312 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1197 cc | 900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 60 HP | 36 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 87 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 70.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 6.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 40 L |