1972 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix (247 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 840 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix. 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (462 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Wartburg |
| Model | Grand Prix | 312 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6547 cc | 898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 462 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 40 L |
